Dainik Nation News Portal
DAINIK NATION BUREAU/KOTDWAR
In the Ankita Bhandari murder case, the Additional District and Sessions Court in Kotdwar today convicted all three accused — Pulkit Arya, Saurabh Bhaskar, and Ankit Gupta. Court has convicted these accused under section 302, 201 an 354B. While the sentencing is yet to be announced, the court’s verdict marks a significant turning point in a case that had triggered widespread protests and public outrage across Uttarakhand and the nation.
The tragic case of Ankita Bhandari, a young resort receptionist, shook the conscience of the nation in September 2022. In a swift action following the incident, all three accused were arrested and sent to jail within 24 hours — and they remain in custody to this day. The Uttarakhand government formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure a comprehensive probe. Additionally, the accused were booked under the Gangster Act to further strengthen the case.
The SIT filed a 500-page charge sheet, incorporating testimonies from over 100 witnesses. At the demand of Ankita’s family, the government replaced its lawyer three times to ensure strong and effective legal representation. The consistent and firm advocacy led to the bail applications of the accused being rejected every time.
As a gesture of support, the state government provided ₹25 lakh in financial assistance to Ankita’s family. Her father and brother were also given government jobs to aid their livelihood.
Meanwhile, the state government criticized the Congress and individuals like Ashutosh Negi, accusing them of politicizing the case and misleading the public without contributing meaningfully during court proceedings — particularly on the so-called “VIP angle.”
As the state awaits the sentencing, today’s conviction is seen as a step forward in Uttarakhand’s resolve to deliver justice and protect its daughters.
