Uttarakhand Government Calls for CBI Investigation into Ankita Bhandari Murder Case

Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has recommended a CBI investigation into the 2022 murder of Ankita Bhandari, following a meeting with her parents who requested the inquiry. The case has drawn significant public attention and protests, with allegations of coercion and involvement of a 'VIP'. The Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to a fair investigation, while opposition leaders raised concerns about the CBI's impartiality. This development follows the conviction of the accused in the case, highlighting ongoing public interest and demands for justice.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 10, 2026, 17:51 IST

CBI Inquiry Recommended by Uttarakhand CM

On Friday, Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami declared that the state has recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the murder case of Ankita Bhandari, which occurred in 2022.

Bhandari, who served as a receptionist at a resort in Rishikesh owned by Pulkit Arya, the son of former BJP leader Vinod Arya, was reported missing on September 18, 2022. The following day, Arya, along with resort manager Saurabh Bhaskar and assistant manager Ankit Gupta, filed a missing person report.

However, they later admitted to murdering Bhandari by pushing her into a canal following a dispute. Her body was discovered in the Chilla Canal six days after her disappearance.

In light of the incident, the BJP expelled Vinod Arya and his son Ankit Arya once the details emerged.

Subsequent evidence, including WhatsApp messages from Bhandari to a friend, suggested that the accused were allegedly attempting to coerce her into prostitution. It was alleged that she was killed for refusing to provide 'special services' to a 'VIP'.

In May 2025, Pulkit Arya, Bhaskar, and Gupta received life sentences for their roles in the murder.

Dhami's announcement came shortly after a meeting with Bhandari's parents, who had submitted a letter requesting a CBI investigation overseen by a Supreme Court judge.

The parents alleged that their daughter was murdered due to the influence of an unidentified 'VIP'.

In recent days, the Opposition Congress and various civic organizations have staged protests regarding the case.

During his statement, the Chief Minister emphasized that the state government approved the CBI inquiry to honor the wishes and sentiments of Bhandari's family.

He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring a just and transparent investigation, noting that swift actions had been taken following the incident, including the establishment of a Special Investigation Team.

Dhami mentioned that all suspects were quickly apprehended, and robust legal measures were implemented to prevent bail during the investigation and trial.

Additionally, separate first information reports have been filed concerning audio clips circulating on social media, which are currently under investigation.

In December, actress Urmila Sanawar shared videos and an audio recording of a conversation with her alleged former husband, which mentioned a senior BJP leader.

Following these revelations, the Congress and other opposition parties called for a CBI investigation.

On Wednesday, the High Court ordered the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, Sanawar, and others to remove posts that allegedly defamed a senior BJP leader in connection with the case. The next hearing is scheduled for May 4.

Uttarakhand Congress chief Ganesh Godiyal described the decision to initiate a CBI probe as a 'partial victory' but expressed concerns regarding the investigation's impartiality.

He stated, 'The CBI is controlled by the same party [BJP] that governs both the Centre and the state,' raising questions about the agency's credibility. Godiyal insisted that the case should be monitored by a sitting judge from the High Court or Supreme Court to ensure the truth is fully uncovered.