In a significant development, the Uttarakhand government has decided to hand over the investigation into the murder of Ankita Bhandari to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made the announcement, stating the decision was taken after a recent meeting with the victim's grieving parents.
Chief Minister Heeds Parents' Plea
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami revealed that during a meeting held with the family of Ankita Bhandari, her parents explicitly requested a probe by the central investigating agency. Respecting their sentiments and demand for a thorough investigation, the state government has formally recommended a CBI inquiry into the matter. This move is seen as a step towards ensuring transparency and building public trust in the investigative process.
Background of the Case
The murder of Ankita Bhandari, a young woman from Uttarakhand, had sent shockwaves across the state and the nation. The case, which involved allegations against influential individuals, had led to widespread public outrage and calls for a fair investigation. The state police had been investigating the crime, but the family's appeal for a CBI probe indicated a desire for an inquiry perceived to be beyond local influence.
Path Forward and Implications
With the state government's recommendation now made, the ball is in the court of the central government and the CBI. The central agency will need to accept the reference and take over the case files from the Uttarakhand Police. This decision, announced on 09 January 2026, is expected to bring a new direction to the probe. Legal experts and activists have often viewed CBI interventions in high-profile state cases as mechanisms to address concerns about impartiality. The nation will now watch closely as the premier investigative agency begins its work to deliver justice for Ankita Bhandari and her family.
