DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held an emotional meeting with the parents of Ankita Bhandari, the young receptionist whose tragic death in 2022 sent shockwaves across the state. The encounter took place at the CM’s residence, underscoring the government’s ongoing commitment to justice in this high-profile case.
Ankita, a 19-year-old from Pauri Garhwal, vanished from a resort in Rishikesh where she worked. Her body was later discovered in a canal, sparking outrage over allegations of murder and cover-up involving the resort owner’s son and aides. The case drew national attention, with demands for swift action against the accused.
During the meeting, Dhami listened intently to the family’s grievances and assured them of the state’s full support. ‘The pain of Ankita’s family is ours too. We will not rest until justice is served,’ the CM stated, as per sources close to the meeting. He highlighted the fast-track court’s progress and promised continued vigilance.
The parents, visibly moved, expressed gratitude for the CM’s personal involvement. They reiterated their demand for a thorough CBI probe, citing concerns over local investigation lapses. This visit comes amid recent court hearings where key witnesses have turned hostile, reigniting debates on the case’s handling.
Dhami also discussed broader safety measures for women in the tourism sector, announcing enhanced patrolling and helplines. Ankita’s story has become a rallying cry for reforms, prompting policy reviews in Uttarakhand’s hospitality industry.
As the trial unfolds, this meeting signals the government’s resolve. Families like Ankita’s deserve closure, and Dhami’s outreach may bolster public faith in the system. The state watches closely, hoping for accountability in this poignant saga of loss and quest for truth.