The Uttarakhand Additional Director General of Police (Crime and Law & Order), Dr V Murugesan, provided a comprehensive account of the investigation and judicial proceedings surrounding the 2022 murder of Ankita Bhandari. His remarks were made during a press conference held at the Police Headquarters in Dehradun. The coordinated efforts of the police, the Special Investigation Team (SIT), and the prosecution were pivotal in securing the convictions of all three accused, who have been sentenced to life imprisonment.

Dr Murugesan noted that the police responded swiftly after the incident involving 19-year-old Ankita, who was employed as a receptionist at the Vanantara Resort situated near Rishikesh. Within 24 hours of the case coming to light, the three suspects were apprehended, highlighting the urgency with which the police approached the matter. The gravity of the case prompted the immediate formation of a Special Investigation Team under the directives of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

To ensure a thorough investigation, a woman IPS officer of Deputy Inspector General (DIG) rank was appointed to lead the SIT. This decision was made to guarantee that the investigation would be both comprehensive and effective, addressing the complexities involved in the case.

Details of the SIT Investigation

Dr Murugesan elaborated on the SIT’s extensive 88-day investigation, which involved the collection of digital, technical, forensic, and physical evidence. The team meticulously examined the accused, analysed forensic reports, and recorded statements from witnesses to establish a clear sequence of events. This thorough approach was crucial in building a solid case against the suspects.

Upon completion of the investigation, the SIT submitted a detailed chargesheet comprising approximately 500 pages to the court. The case gained significant public attention following Ankita’s disappearance on September 18, 2022, and the subsequent discovery of her body in the Chilla canal. This tragic incident sparked widespread protests and heightened discussions regarding women’s safety, alleged political influence, and accountability in the investigation process.

Ankita was working at the Vanantara Resort, which is located in the Yamkeshwar area of Pauri district and owned by Pulkit Arya, the son of former BJP leader Vinod Arya. Pulkit, along with resort manager Saurabh Bhaskar and Ankit Gupta, faced arrest in connection with her murder.

Conviction and Sentencing of the Accused

Dr Murugesan confirmed that the state government took necessary actions to facilitate an expedited trial and ensure effective prosecution. The evidence gathered by the SIT, combined with the arguments presented by the prosecution, culminated in the conviction of the three accused by the Additional District and Sessions Court in Kotdwar on May 30, 2025. The court imposed rigorous life imprisonment sentences on Pulkit Arya, Saurabh Bhaskar, and Ankit Gupta, who are currently serving their sentences.

The case had previously faced intense public scrutiny, with Ankita’s family and the public demanding severe punishment for those responsible for her death. Dr Murugesan’s briefing underscored the importance of coordinated investigation, evidence collection, and courtroom prosecution in achieving a judicial resolution. With all three accused convicted and sentenced, the immediate legal proceedings have resulted in life imprisonment for the perpetrators.

Future developments in this case will depend on any subsequent legal actions pursued by the convicted individuals or other parties in accordance with the law. The case serves as a significant example of the judicial system’s response to serious crimes against women in India.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share