BJP faces heat ahead of Uttarakhand Assembly elections as Ankita Bhandari murder case resurfaces
The Ankita Bhandari murder case has once again ignited Uttarakhand politics. With assembly elections due in 2027, the issue is drawing protests, social media outrage, and opposition attacks, putting the BJP under pressure as demands for a CBI investigation grow louder.
Dehradun: Three years after the tragic murder of 22‑year‑old Ankita Bhandari, the case has returned to the political spotlight in Uttarakhand. As the state prepares for assembly elections in early 2027, the issue is heating up again, raising questions about governance, justice, and accountability.
Ankita Bhandari worked as a receptionist at Vanantara Resort in Ganga Bhogpur, Pauri district. She went missing on September 18, 2022, and her body was recovered from the Chila Canal six days later. Investigations revealed that resort owner Pulkit Arya pressured her to provide "special services” to a VIP. Police arrested Arya along with Ankit Gupta and Saurabh Bhaskar. In May 2025, the Kotdwar District and Sessions Court sentenced all three to life imprisonment.
Audio clip gave birth to fresh controversy
The matter resurfaced in late 2025 when an audio clip of former BJP MLA Suresh Rathod and actress Urmila Sanawar went viral. In the recording, Rathod allegedly mentioned BJP leaders Dushyant Gautam and Ajay Kumar as VIPs linked to the case. This reignited public anger and opposition attacks.
Congress quickly seized the opportunity, organizing protests and candlelight vigils across the state. The party accused the BJP of shielding high‑profile leaders and avoiding a CBI probe. It also criticized the bulldozing of Vanantara Resort, calling it an attempt to destroy evidence.
Heavy online trolling of BJP leaders
The BJP and its leaders are facing heavy trolling online. Social activist Yogita Bhayana held a press conference in Dehradun demanding a CBI investigation and warning of protests if action is not taken. The issue has spread beyond Uttarakhand, resonating nationally and adding to BJP’s challenges.
Government’s response
Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal addressed the media, defending the government’s handling of the case. He said an SIT led by a female IPS officer was formed in 2022, and the investigation was strong enough to deny bail to the accused throughout the trial. He emphasized that both the High Court and Supreme Court rejected demands for a CBI probe.
On the viral audio, Uniyal confirmed that separate FIRs have been filed. He assured that if credible evidence emerges, the government will not hesitate to act. He also clarified that the SIT lawyer was appointed with the consent of Ankita’s family, and no attempt was made to protect VIPs. Regarding the bulldozer action, he insisted that no evidence was destroyed.
Delhi high court ordered to remove posts linking BJP leader
On January 7, 2026, the Delhi High Court ordered Congress and AAP to remove posts linking BJP leader Dushyant Gautam to Ankita Bhandari’s murder. Her parents met CM Dhami, who assured justice and may seek legal advice for CBI probe.
Resurfacing of allegations and opposition attacks could prove damaging
With elections approaching, the case has become a major talking point. For the BJP, the resurfacing of allegations and opposition attacks could prove damaging. Congress is likely to keep the issue alive, portraying the ruling party as insensitive to justice.
The Ankita Bhandari case is not just about one crime—it has become symbolic of larger questions about women’s safety, political accountability, and transparency in governance. As the 2027 polls near, the case may play a decisive role in shaping voter sentiment in Uttarakhand.