Ex-BJP leader’s son among three convicted in Ankita Bhandari murder

In a long-awaited verdict that has reignited public discourse on women’s safety and political privilege, an Uttarakhand court on Friday convicted Pulkit Arya son of a now-suspended BJP leader  along with Saurabh Bhaskar and Ankit Gupta, for the 2022 murder of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari. Ankita, a receptionist at Vanantara Resort in Pauri district, was reported missing on September 18, 2022. Days later, her body was found in the Chilla canal, a grim confirmation of the worst fears surrounding her disappearance. 

A resort of horror and power 

Ankita worked at the Vanantara Resort, owned by Pulkit Arya, located in the Yamkeshwar area. Investigations revealed chilling details  including reports that Pulkit was pressuring Ankita to provide “special services” to clients. Her refusal allegedly led to an altercation on the night of her murder, after which she was pushed into the canal. The involvement of politically connected individuals added layers of outrage and complexity to the case. 

Public outcry and political fallout 

What began as a local tragedy soon escalated into a national flashpoint. Public anger intensified over alleged attempts to derail the investigation and shield the accused. Massive protests across Uttarakhand called for swift justice and severe punishment. The political backlash led to the suspension of Pulkit’s father, BJP leader Vinod Arya, as citizens demanded accountability beyond courtrooms. 

Trial built on a mountain of evidence 

To bring the accused to justice, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted a detailed 500-page chargesheet, supported by 97 witnesses. The trial began in March 2023, and during proceedings, 47 of those witnesses gave statements in court. The three men were charged under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including 302 (murder), 201 (destruction of evidence), 354A (sexual harassment), and provisions of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. The Gangster Act was later added to reflect the seriousness of the organized crime element in the case. 

A mother's plea, a nation's demand 

On the day of the verdict, Ankita's mother made an emotional appeal for justice, calling for the death penalty for the accused. "May the criminals be sentenced to death. I urge the people of Uttarakhand to support us and show up at the court to keep our morale high,"she told reporters. Her plea echoed across social media and newsrooms, amplifying the voice of a grieving mother seeking closure. 

Justice delivered  but is it enough? 

The court’s verdict marks a major step forward in the fight for justice, but also raises deeper questions about systemic abuse of power, delayed investigations, and women’s safety. As sentencing awaits, many believe this case must serve as a landmark  not just in punishing the guilty, but in prompting real structural reforms.