Ankita Bhandari's Parents Join Mahapanchayat, Demand Justice and VIP Probe
A significant mahapanchayat was held in Dehradun on Sunday, drawing attention to the unresolved aspects of the Ankita Bhandari murder case. The event saw the participation of Ankita's parents, Virendra Bhandari and Soni Devi, who passionately called for a thorough investigation into the alleged VIP involvement in their daughter's death. Ankita was murdered in 2022 by a former BJP leader's son and two associates, all of whom have been convicted, but concerns persist about broader conspiracies.
Key Resolutions and Demands at the Mahapanchayat
The mahapanchayat, organized by the Ankita Nyay Yatra Joint Struggle Forum, passed five critical resolutions. These included a demand for the removal of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami from his position and his inclusion in the CBI probe that he recommended last month. Ankita's father emphasized that the investigation must focus on the VIP angle, expressing worry that official communications have overlooked this aspect. He stated, "I had given a representation to the CM seeking a probe under the supervision of a retired Supreme Court judge. An FIR was registered on the complaint of Dr. Anil Joshi, with whom I have no relationship."
Another resolution called for the cancellation of the FIR filed by environmentalist Dr. Anil Prakash Joshi, who is a Padma awardee. The opposition has questioned the timing and location of this complaint, noting it was filed on the same day the CBI probe was recommended and in Dehradun, despite the crime occurring in Rishikesh and the trial taking place in Kotdwar. Virendra Bhandari reiterated his demand for probing call detail records to uncover the truth, asking poignantly, "If my daughter did not bow, how can I?"
Political Support and Broader Implications
The mahapanchayat garnered support from around 40 organizations and over 500 attendees, with constituent political parties of the INDIA bloc extending their backing. Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Harish Rawat attended the event, criticizing the investigation based on Joshi's FIR as potentially biased. He argued that such a probe might shield VIPs, even under CBI scrutiny. CPI (ML) leader Indresh Maikhuri drew a stark comparison, labeling Ankita's murder as "an Uttarakhand version of an international-level Epstein file," highlighting the perceived cover-up and high-profile connections.
A memorandum was also sent to the President through the mahapanchayat, underscoring the urgency of the demands. The gathering reflects ongoing public unrest in Uttarakhand, with protests continuing since the murder, fueled by allegations of political interference and lack of transparency in the justice process.
Background and Context of the Case
Ankita Bhandari's murder in 2022 sparked widespread outrage and protests across Uttarakhand, leading to the conviction of the perpetrators. However, the case has remained in the spotlight due to persistent calls for investigating possible VIP involvement. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's recommendation for a CBI probe last month has been met with skepticism, with critics suggesting it may not address the core issues. The mahapanchayat serves as a platform for amplifying these concerns, pushing for accountability beyond the convicted individuals.
The event underscores the challenges in achieving justice in high-profile cases, where political and social pressures can influence investigative outcomes. As the demand for a comprehensive probe grows, the focus remains on ensuring that all angles, especially those involving influential figures, are thoroughly examined to deliver true justice for Ankita Bhandari and her family.
