The Government Nursing College in Dobh (Shrikot) village, Pauri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, has been renamed the Late Ankita Bhandari Government Nursing College . This renaming follows instructions from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Dr. R Rajesh Kumar, Secretary of the state’s Medical and Health Department, issued the official order on Thursday .
The renaming comes as Ankita Bhandari’s parents continue to seek a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into their daughter’s 2022 murder. Chief Minister Dhami met Ankita’s parents on Wednesday , assuring them of justice in the case.
Parents Demand CBI Investigation
Ankita Bhandari’s parents handed Chief Minister Dhami a letter expressing their demand for a CBI investigation into the murder. Virendra Bhandari, Ankita’s father, stated in the letter, “I appeal to the government to get this case investigated by the CBI under the supervision of a Supreme Court judge to apprehend the VIP.” This request highlights concerns about high-profile involvement in the case.
The demand for a CBI probe gained new momentum after Urmila Sanawar, alleged wife of expelled BJP MLA Suresh Rathore, claimed a ‘VIP’ was involved in the murder. Sanawar’s claim suggested involvement from an individual allegedly linked to a political party, prompting renewed public and family calls for a more extensive investigation.
The 2022 Murder Case
In 2022 , 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari, a resident of Dobh village, worked as a receptionist at the Vanantra Resort in Pauri. Resort owner Pulkit Arya and two of his employees, Saurabh Bhaskar and Ankit Gupta, murdered her. Investigations revealed that Ankita was pressured to provide ‘special services’ to guests, which she refused.
Her murder sparked widespread outrage across Uttarakhand. Public protests demanded swift justice and a thorough investigation. Authorities arrested Arya, Bhaskar, and Gupta shortly after the incident. All three were subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment for their roles in Ankita Bhandari’s death. The Pauri Garhwal Police Department conducted the initial investigation, leading to their conviction.
Ongoing Quest for Justice
The renaming of the nursing college serves as a memorial to Ankita Bhandari, acknowledging her tragic death and the community’s demand for accountability. However, her parents emphasize that a full and transparent investigation remains their priority. The call for a CBI probe overseen by a Supreme Court judge reflects the family’s desire for a higher level of scrutiny, particularly regarding the alleged ‘VIP’ involvement.
This development underscores the continued pursuit of justice for Ankita Bhandari. Her family and supporters seek to ensure all individuals connected to the case are held responsible, beyond the convictions already secured.