Discussing this case evokes a considerable emotional response, as it concerns my own state, Uttarakhand. Are you familiar with the Ankita Bhandari case? If not, allow me to elucidate. Ankita Bhandari, a 19-year-old receptionist at Vanantara Resort in Rishikesh, was tragically murdered on September 18, 2022, by the resort’s manager, Pulkit Arya, the son of former BJP leader Vinod Arya. Her death occurred merely twenty days after she commenced her employment. Her body was discovered six days after she went missing. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the state police, which investigated her murder, uncovered evidence indicating that she was being coerced into providing sexual services, which she opposed, ultimately leading to her murder.
Arya was convicted under various sections related to murder, sexual harassment, evidence disappearance, and the Immoral Trafficking Act.
Subsequently, a wave of protests ensued following the release of videos by a woman, Urmila Sanawar, who claims to be the second wife of former Haridwar BJP MLA Suresh Rathore. Sanawar initially posted a video alleging that Ankita was killed for refusing to offer “extra services” to an individual referred to as "Gattu." She later shared another video containing an audio recording purportedly of a conversation between herself and Rathore, in which the latter allegedly implicated BJP's national general secretary in charge of Uttarakhand, Dushyant Gautam, in the case.
It is noteworthy that Sanawar, asserting her claim as the wife of Suresh Rathore, returned to Dehradun accompanied by Swami Darshan Bharti, a prominent right-wing leader and head of the Uttarakhand Raksha Abhiyan. Bharti stated that Sanawar had expressed fears for her safety and only returned after assurances of adequate security from the government and police.
Later, Sanawar approached the SIT to record her statement. S.K. Meena, spokesperson for the Uttarakhand police, confirmed that all evidence in Sanawar's possession would be collected by the SIT as part of their investigation.
Should Sanawar reveal the identities of VIP guests, believed to be members of the BJP and other high-profile politicians, justice for Ankita Bhandari may finally be achieved. At just 19 years old, earning Rs. 10,000 monthly to support her family, she was murdered. I stand with the people of Uttarakhand, with my community. I urge all of India to learn about Ankita Bhandari’s story and to recognize the involvement of the BJP in numerous major cases of assault and homicide. I hope Sanawar exposes these influential politicians, allowing Ankita to finally find justice after three long years.
Regarding the RSS and Bajrang Dal, they are often seen engaging in activities such as harassing couples on Valentine’s Day or chanting Hanuman Chalisa in front of churches, yet when their community and society require their support, they are absent. Their priorities are misplaced. Even now, these organizations do not stand with the people of Uttarakhand. They are ineffective if they do not support their own community; they tend to disappear when most needed. I call upon everyone to stand with the people of Uttarakhand. Let us ensure that this young girl receives justice. This is the sincere desire of all the people of Uttarakhand.
Lastly, Mahadev is watching all. Justice will prevail in his land.
( Covered the case from The Hindu and The Gharwal Post)
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