CM Dhami announces financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for Ankita's family

Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], September 28 (ANI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for the family of Ankita Bhandari, who was allegedly murdered in Rishikesh.
The Chief Minister said, "The state government is with Ankita's family and would help them in every way. SIT investigation is going on in the matter. The investigation will be completed at the earliest in a completely impartial manner."
Dhami also said that the police were collecting facts related to the case and preparing the report in a solid manner that will ensure that the culprits get the strictest punishment.
"Such punishment will be given to the criminals which will become an example for the future also. The Hon'ble Court has been requested for hearing in fast track court so that the victim's family can get speedy justice," said CM Dhami.
The body of Ankita Bhandari, 19, was recovered from the Chilla canal in Rishikesh on September 24. Pulkit Arya, son of expelled BJP leader Vinod Arya, was arrested in the case.
All the lawyers of Kotdwar refused to fight the case of the accused and Kotdwar Bar Association President Ajay Kumar Pant said that if any lawyer even from outside comes to defend the accused, the Bar Association will oppose it. Due to the said decision of the lawyers, there was no hearing on the bail of the accused on Wednesday. Notably, the judicial custody of the accused is ending on October 6.
The murder case sparked massive outrage and protests were reported from various parts of the state. Angry locals even set on fire the resort where Ankita worked. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami then ordered officials to ensure law and order in the state.
Authorities had demolished parts of the resort, saying the structures were illegally constructed. But this action had raised fears that crucial evidence relating to the case may have been compromised.
The police, however, assured that a forensic team had collected evidence before the demolition.
Besides Pulkit Arya, two more people were arrested in the case. (ANI)