CBI Takes Over High-Profile Uttarakhand Murder Case Amid Allegations

The CBI has taken control of the investigation into the 2022 murder of Ankita Bhandari, a 19-year-old receptionist, following allegations of a VIP's involvement. The investigation, initially handled by the Uttarakhand Police, faced public demand for CBI supervision under a Supreme Court judge due to emerging evidence and political pressure.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has assumed charge of the investigation into the tragic murder of 19-year-old resort receptionist Ankita Bhandari, following the takeover from the Uttarakhand Police. This development was confirmed by officials on Monday, in response to growing public and political pressure.

A recommendation for a CBI inquiry into the case was put forward by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, echoing the demands of Ankita's bereaved parents. The family, believing their daughter's murder involves a mysterious 'VIP,' had sought a probe under the supervision of a Supreme Court judge.

The original investigative efforts resulted in the conviction of the resort owner, Pulkit Arya, and two other employees. However, the case has garnered renewed attention after actress Urmila Sanawar, claiming to be a legislator's wife, released alleged conversations implicating a powerful individual. These revelations have intensified public protests, with groups like Congress advocating for CBI involvement to unveil the VIP's identity.

(With inputs from agencies.)