The Special Investigation Team (SIT) swiftly completed the probe, and strong evidence played a key role.
On the night of September 18, 2022, the murder of Ankita Bhandari, who worked at a resort near Rishikesh, shook the entire state. On Friday, the Additional District and Sessions Court in Kotdwar found all three accused guilty and sentenced them to life imprisonment with rigorous punishment.
The strict sentence within nearly three years of the incident highlights the fairness of the police investigation and the strong advocacy by the public prosecutor.
Police Arrested the Accused Within 24 Hours
In light of the gravity of the case, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on September 24, headed by female IPS officer P. Renuka Devi. After the case was handed over to the regular police, all three accused were arrested within 24 hours, and crucial evidence was seized.
The SIT conducted an in-depth investigation and prepared a detailed 500-page charge sheet. This charge sheet included statements from over 100 witnesses. Based on this, the prosecution strongly argued the case in court, resulting in the sentencing within just under three years. The government not only filed murder charges against the accused but also took action under the Gangster Act.
Financial Assistance and Government Jobs to the Family
Showing sensitivity, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami provided financial assistance of ₹25 lakh to Ankita Bhandari’s family. Additionally, government jobs were offered to her father and brother to support the grieving family.
Supreme Court Found the Investigation Satisfactory
The Supreme Court also deemed the government’s investigation process satisfactory, making it evident that no stone was left unturned in the pursuit of justice for Ankita. The government’s impartiality and vigilance were evident at every stage of this case related to the safety of daughters.
Continued Strong Advocacy Ahead
The government has stated that strong advocacy in the case will continue if needed. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami affirmed that delivering justice to Ankita was the government’s commitment.
The case was pursued strongly in court with the support of her family, which led to the life sentences for all three convicts. The government will continue to pursue the case vigorously, ensuring that no effort is spared in securing justice for Ankita.
