Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday recommended a CBI investigation into the Ankita Bhandari murder case, accepting the demand made by Ankita’s parents. The Uttarakhand Chief Minister’s Office confirmed that the decision was taken respecting the request and sentiments of the family.

Dhami said the government’s objective is to ensure fair, transparent and sensitive justice from start to finish in the case that shocked the state and triggered massive protests.

The Chief Minister said that from the moment Ankita’s death came to light, the state government acted “without delay” and set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a woman IPS officer. All accused were arrested, he said, and strong prosecution ensured that none of the accused received bail during investigation or trial.

After the SIT completed its probe and filed the charge sheet, a trial court awarded life imprisonment to the accused, Dhami said, calling it proof that the government acted firmly and transparently.

Fresh twist: audio clips & demand for CBI probe

Dhami also said separate FIRs have been filed regarding viral audio clips circulating on social media, and investigations into them are ongoing.

He added emotionally that “Ankita was not just a victim, she was our sister and daughter.”

The Chief Minister met Ankita’s parents who demanded a CBI probe, following which the state government decided to hand over the case to the central agency.

Dhami reiterated that no fact or evidence will be ignored and that the government remains committed to delivering justice in the Ankita Bhandari case.