The Congress party has launched a sharp attack on the Pushkar Singh Dhami-led Uttarakhand government, claiming it was left with no alternative but to order a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the murder of Ankita Bhandari. The opposition alleges the move is a desperate attempt to salvage the administration's image.
Allegations of Shifting Responsibility
In a strongly worded accusation, the Congress party stated that Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is attempting to shift the responsibility of the investigation onto the victim's family. The party claims this strategy is primarily designed to protect the reputation of his government rather than ensure swift justice. The case, which has sparked national outrage, involves the tragic death of young woman Ankita Bhandari.
The decision for a CBI probe was announced on January 7, 2026, as confirmed by a PTI report timestamped 20:09 IST. The Congress's criticism suggests that the state government acted under immense public and political pressure, implying that the initial handling of the case by local authorities was insufficient.
Political Repercussions and Public Outcry
The murder case has become a significant political flashpoint in Uttarakhand. The Congress's allegations point to a governance failure, accusing the Dhami administration of reacting only when cornered. The party's statement underscores a narrative of a government compelled to act, not out of volition but out of compulsion.
Key elements of the controversy include:
- The timing and motive behind the CBI handover.
- Allegations of the government trying to manage public perception.
- The ongoing demand for accountability from the victim's family and the public.
With the CBI now taking over the investigation, all eyes are on the central agency to deliver a transparent and conclusive report. The Congress has positioned itself to closely monitor the probe, ensuring the case does not lose momentum. This incident is likely to have lasting implications for the political landscape in Uttarakhand, as questions about law and order and administrative accountability take center stage.
