Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated on Tuesday that his government is open to all forms of investigation, including a potential CBI probe, into the mysterious 2022 murder of a 19-year-old receptionist at a Rishikesh resort. This comes amid growing public and political demand for a central agency investigation into the case that had triggered massive protests across the state.
CM's Assurance and Meeting with Victim's Family
Addressing the media, CM Dhami described the case as extremely heartbreaking and sensitive, acknowledging that the sentiments of the entire state are connected to it. He announced his intention to meet the parents of the deceased woman to discuss their concerns directly. Being the CM, I will meet them, Dhami said, adding that after examining all legal aspects, his government would follow whatever the family suggests regarding justice for their daughter.
He reiterated that those involved in the crime would not be spared. Dhami pointed out that an earlier Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe had already led to three accused being sentenced to life imprisonment.
Audio Leaks and Allegations of Political Conspiracy
The case has been reignited recently after several audio clips surfaced, allegedly released by a woman named Urmila Sanawar. In these clips, expelled former BJP MLA Suresh Rathore is purportedly heard referring to a VIP who he alleged was a senior BJP leader. The insinuation was that this VIP had visited the resort and sought favours from the young receptionist. Rathore has since denied the allegations, claiming the audio clips were AI-generated.
CM Dhami did not rule out a planned political conspiracy behind the latest controversy. He drew parallels to a similar audio leak during a recent exam paper leak issue, suggesting a pattern. Hue and cry was created then too. Now another audio leak is being used to spoil the environment of Uttarakhand, he said, taking a swipe at Congress leaders for allegedly trying to revive their political careers through the case.
Police Investigation and SIT Formation
Dhami raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the release of the audio clips, noting it was suspicious that the phone used was switched off afterwards and that a press conference was held in Delhi for a matter pertaining to Uttarakhand. He stated that police and social media records confirmed that the party in-charge named in one audio did not visit Uttarakhand during the mentioned period.
He informed that police have tried to approach those levelling fresh allegations, even pasting notices at their houses, but they continue to avoid the sleuths. In response to the new developments, police in Haridwar have constituted a new SIT to probe the audio clips involving Urmila Sanawar, whose allegations have sparked the current political storm.
The Chief Minister urged cooperation, stating that the ex-MLA and others whose names have surfaced must assist the investigation. Instead of remaining on the run, those who made allegations should appear before police so the truth can come out, he concluded.
