Justice Delivered in Ankita Bhandari Murder Case: Life Sentences for All Convicted
In a landmark judgment, a court in Uttarakhand’s Pauri Garhwal district has sentenced Pulkit Arya, son of a former BJP minister, and his two associates, Saurabh Bhaskar and Ankit Gupta, to life imprisonment for the 2022 murder of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari.
Background of the Case
Ankita Bhandari was employed as a receptionist at the Vanantra Resort in Rishikesh, owned by Pulkit Arya. On September 18, 2022, she went missing, and her body was later recovered from the Chilla canal.
Investigations revealed that Ankita had resisted Arya’s demands to provide “special services” to VIP guests, leading to her murder.
Investigation and Trial
The case drew widespread attention due to the involvement of politically connected individuals. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, and a 500-page chargesheet was filed.
Key evidence included statements from 47 witnesses and WhatsApp chats that corroborated the prosecution’s case.
Court Verdict
On May 30, 2025, the court found all three accused guilty under various sections, including murder, destruction of evidence, criminal conspiracy, and sexual harassment.
In addition to life imprisonment, fines were imposed, and compensation was directed to be paid to Ankita’s family.
Reactions
Ankita’s parents expressed that while the verdict is a step towards justice, they believe the punishment should have been more severe. They have indicated plans to appeal for a harsher sentence.
The conviction of all three accused in the Ankita Bhandari murder case marks a significant moment in the pursuit of justice.
The case has highlighted issues of women’s safety and the need for accountability, regardless of political connections.
