In a significant development in one of northern India’s most controversial criminal cases, the Uttarakhand government has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the 2022 murder of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari, reigniting public interest and political debate. The decision was announced by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami after intense pressure from the victim’s family and widespread public protests demanding a deeper and impartial investigation.
Ankita, who worked as a receptionist at the Vanantra Resort near Rishikesh, was reported missing in September 2022; her body was later recovered from a canal. Initially investigated by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), three men — including the resort owner, Pulkit Arya — were convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in May 2025. Despite convictions, the case continued to attract attention due to allegations surrounding the role of a ‘VIP’ figure allegedly connected to the crime, claims that have circulated on social media and fueled protests across the state.
The CBI referral aims to address lingering questions about the extent of any high-profile involvement and ensure a transparent, thorough inquiry beyond the original SIT investigation. Ankita’s parents had personally met the chief minister to seek a central investigation, arguing that a probe under the supervision of a senior judge could bring clarity and justice after years of uncertainty.
The move has drawn mixed reactions: supporters of the family and protestors have welcomed it as a step toward accountability, while some political leaders maintain that previous inquiries were comprehensive. As the CBI takes charge, many in Uttarakhand and across India will be watching closely to see whether this next phase of investigation resolves unanswered questions and delivers long-awaited justice news as reported.
