Protests linked to the Ankita Bhandari murder case reached the national capital on Sunday. Demonstrators gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to renew demands for a Central Bureau of Investigation probe and strict action against everyone allegedly involved in the crime. The agitation reflects continuing public dissatisfaction with how the case has been handled.
Members of the Mahanagar Delhi Uttarakhand Pravasi Sangathan led the demonstration in the capital. Protesters said the case remains incomplete without a comprehensive investigation into the alleged “VIP” angle. Speakers at the site stressed that justice must apply equally, regardless of power or political position. Many raised slogans demanding accountability and transparency.
Fresh allegations add urgency
The renewed protests followed recent public claims by television actor Urmila Sanawar. She alleged that the previously unidentified “VIP” mentioned during the early phase of the investigation was Dushyant Kumar Gautam. She made the claim public in late December 2025 and said the individual was referred to as “Gattu.” Protesters argued that these allegations require an independent and credible probe.
Demonstrators said they were turning to the central leadership because they believe the state government has failed to address lingering questions. Several speakers urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to order a CBI investigation. Some participants also demanded the harshest possible punishment for anyone found guilty after a fresh probe.
Protesters alleged that crucial evidence may have been destroyed. They questioned why messages and statements suggesting pressure on Ankita to provide “special services” to a VIP were not fully examined during the initial investigation. According to them, these gaps have weakened public trust in the official process.
Parallel protests in Uttarakhand
Alongside the Delhi demonstration, similar protests were held in Dehradun. Civil society groups, residents, and political organisations took part. These protests underline sustained public unease in Uttarakhand, where demonstrations have continued intermittently over recent weeks.
Background of the case
The case relates to the 2022 murder of Ankita Bhandari at the Vanantra Resort near Rishikesh. During the early investigation, references to pressure on the victim to entertain a VIP drew widespread attention. However, this angle did not appear in the final charge sheet.
Court verdict so far
In May 2025, a court in Kotdwar convicted resort owner Pulkit Arya and two employees. The court sentenced all three to life imprisonment. Arya is the son of former BJP leader Vinod Arya, who was expelled from the party following the incident.
Political reactions and denials
The BJP has rejected the latest allegations outright. Dushyant Kumar Gautam has described the claims as defamatory and politically motivated. He has said he approached the Chief Minister’s office seeking a formal inquiry. In a video statement, he stated he would step away from public life if the allegations were proven and warned of legal action against those naming him without evidence.
Growing political flashpoint
As protests intensify, the Ankita Bhandari case has again become a major political issue in Uttarakhand. The controversy has sharpened debates around influence, accountability, and the credibility of investigations in cases involving powerful individuals.
Conclusion
The spread of protests to Delhi shows that public concern over the Ankita Bhandari murder case remains strong. While convictions have been secured, demands for a CBI probe and a deeper examination of unanswered questions continue to grow. The coming weeks may prove crucial in determining whether authorities move to address these concerns and restore public confidence in the pursuit of justice.
