Ankita Bhandari Case: Former MLA Suresh Rathore Claims Full Cooperation With CBI
Former BJP MLA Suresh Rathore claims full cooperation with CBI as investigation into the Ankita Bhandari murder case intensifies.
Former Uttarakhand BJP MLA Suresh Rathore has stated that he has provided complete cooperation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) during their questioning regarding the high-profile Ankita Bhandari murder case. This statement follows a visit by a CBI team to Rathore's residence to gather information related to the investigation.
Rathore Addresses the Questioning
Speaking to reporters in Haridwar, Suresh Rathore emphasized that he has shared all relevant details with the agency. He maintained a concise stance, stating, "I cooperated with the investigation—nothing more, nothing less. I have shared everything relevant to the investigation."
When questioned about a specific individual, Urmila Sanawar, Rathore distanced himself entirely, claiming he has no knowledge of who she is. He reiterated his commitment to assist the agency, noting that he has extended and will continue to extend his full cooperation.
Parents Seek Justice and Answers
The CBI's recent activity comes shortly after the parents of Ankita Bhandari met with the CBI Director in Delhi, accompanied by MP Anil Baluni. During this meeting at the CBI headquarters, the parents provided new information regarding various aspects of the case. In response, CBI officials assured them that the probe would be fair, impartial, and thorough in its examination of every detail.
The quest for justice has seen the parents take drastic steps, including a sit-in protest at India Gate in Delhi. Their protest was specifically aimed at opposing the appointment of Dushyant Kumar Gautam, the former BJP Uttarakhand in-charge, as the Governor of Sikkim. The parents argued that no individual whose name surfaced during the investigation should be appointed to a constitutional office until they are fully cleared by investigative agencies.
The Backdrop: A Brutal Murder and the 'VIP' Mystery
The case dates back to September 2022, when Ankita Bhandari, a receptionist at a resort near Rishikesh, was murdered. Her body was recovered from the Chilla Canal on September 24, 2022.
The legal proceedings led to the conviction of three individuals:
- Pulkit Arya: The resort owner and son of expelled BJP leader Vinod Arya.
- Saurabh Bhaskar: A staff member.
- Ankit Gupta: A staff member.
The Shadow of 'VIP' Involvement
Despite the convictions, a cloud of controversy remains over the alleged involvement of a "VIP." While the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe mentioned a "VIP" in relation to a room, the police have maintained that the convictions were based on the evidence against the three primary accused.
Additional Director General of Police (Crime and Law & Order) V Murugesan stated that the police acted promptly, arresting the three suspects within 24 hours of the incident. However, Ankita's parents continue to demand the identity of the "VIP" guest, alleging that powerful figures have been shielded from the law throughout the investigation.