Dehradun, February 9: Former Chief Minister Harish Rawat has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the Ankita Bhandari murder case, requesting that it be conducted under the supervision of the Supreme Court. In a conversation in Dehradun, Rawat emphasized the need for a named FIR against the involved VIPs and a thorough investigation into the destroyed evidence.
In a post on X, Rawat expressed solidarity by attending a mahapanchayat organized to demand justice for Ankita Bhandari. He met with her parents, who displayed remarkable composure and courage despite their immense grief. Their unwavering demand for justice has united the entire state of Uttarakhand. Their pain resonates with every resident of Uttarakhand. The fight for justice has garnered widespread support across the region.
Rawat stated, “This struggle is a response to the calls from sacred places like Badrinath, Kedarnath, Hemkund Sahib, and Kalier. The case has regained relevance, and once again, all of Uttarakhand is stirred. The entire nation is watching, and we must ensure that this fight reaches a decisive turning point.”
He further added that until VIPs, regardless of their status, face the law, and until those responsible for destroying evidence and the police officials who delayed the case are held accountable, the struggle for justice must continue.
In response to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s remarks labeling Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu as a “traitor friend,” Rawat defended Gandhi’s statement, noting that someone who has been elected multiple times and given significant roles by the party, yet chooses to join the BJP, rightfully earns such a label.