Justice Served in Ankita Bhandari Murder Case: Life Sentences for Convicts
Life Sentences for Convicts in Ankita Bhandari Case
The court has delivered justice in the Ankita Bhandari murder case, with the convicts receiving life imprisonment after nearly three years of hearings. Among those sentenced are Pulkit Arya, son of a former minister and a member of the BJP, along with two employees from his resort. The lifeless body of 19-year-old Ankita was discovered in a canal, raising questions about the circumstances of her murder, the attempts to destroy evidence, and the alleged negligence of the government and administration due to the political connections involved. Public pressure played a crucial role in seeking justice, although Ankita's mother feels that true justice remains unfulfilled. Following the sentencing, it was noted that the convicts appeared to be laughing.
Details of the Case
On September 20, 2022, Pulkit, the owner of Vanantara Resort, reported Ankita missing in the Udaypur Palla revenue area. As public outrage grew, the case was transferred to the local police station on September 22, 2022, by the district magistrate's orders. Investigations revealed that Pulkit, along with his associates Ankit and Saurabh, had murdered Ankita on September 18 after pressuring her into immoral activities. When she resisted, they pushed her into the Cheela canal. The police subsequently added charges of murder, evidence tampering, and criminal conspiracy on September 22, 2022. The three suspects were arrested and Ankita's body was recovered from the canal on September 24. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, and a crime scene reenactment took place on September 26. By December 16, a charge sheet was filed against the accused under various sections of the Indian Penal Code.
WhatsApp Chats Reveal Disturbing Evidence
The prosecution presented WhatsApp chats between Ankita and the accused in court, highlighting her distress over their inappropriate behavior and sexual propositions since she began working at the resort. These messages indicated that she was under pressure to provide additional services, prompting her desire to leave the job. In one chat, Ankita expressed her desperation, stating, 'I am poor, but should I sell myself for 10,000?' This illustrates the mental anguish she endured. The Uttarakhand government provided financial assistance of 2.5 million to Ankita's family to manage the situation. A comprehensive charge sheet of 500 pages was submitted, and statements from 97 witnesses were recorded, with 47 key witnesses presented in court. Following the family's request, the government lawyer was also changed.
Convicts Sentenced to Life Imprisonment
Additional District and Sessions Judge Reena Negi sentenced Pulkit Arya, Saurabh Bhaskar, and Ankit Gupta under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 302 (murder), 201 (destroying evidence), and 354A (outraging a woman's modesty), as well as the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. Each convict received a life sentence along with a fine of ₹50,000.
Family Demands Death Penalty
Following the life sentences for the three accused in the Ankita Bhandari murder case, her family is considering further legal action. Ankita's parents have expressed their desire for the death penalty for those who took their daughter's life, stating that their home has been devastated. They emphasized that they wanted these murderers to face capital punishment while they are still alive and plan to appeal to the High Court.
Disturbing Reactions from Convicts
The life of a vibrant young woman was tragically cut short by these murderers, yet their demeanor remained unfazed. As they were transported in a police vehicle after the sentencing, one convict was seen waving his hand in a victorious manner and laughing. This reaction reveals a disturbing mindset that shows no remorse for their crimes or regard for humanity.