Congress using sensitive Ankita Bhandari murder case as political weapon: Uttarakhand BJP President

Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], January 4 (ANI): Uttarakhand BJP president Mahendra Bhatt on Sunday termed the protests by Congress and the opposition as politically motivated, stating that they have nothing to do with justice for Ankita Bhandari, but are instead fighting for their own political survival.
"Congress is using a sensitive issue like the Ankita murder as a political weapon. The political party flags being waved during the protests clearly reflect the intentions of the opposition and individuals nurturing new political ambitions ahead of 2027," Bhatt said.
He added that the Dhami government strongly pursued the case and ensured punishment for the accused, and if the opposition believes there was any lapse, it is free to present facts before the court.
He also described the chaos and disorder created during protests in Dehradun and other places as an attempt to vitiate the atmosphere.
State President Bhatt said that Congress, under a well-planned strategy, is trying to tarnish the image of the BJP government and the organisation.
He alleged "opposition is spreading rumours and conspiracy-based falsehoods over the murder of his deceased daughter. After being repeatedly rejected by the public, Congress leaders are now indulging in extremely disgraceful politics on this serious and sensitive issue."
He said that investigating agencies have already clarified the position regarding the alleged VIP, and all facts have been made clear in court.
"Congress had earlier made several allegations regarding a VIP, and when those did not succeed, it entered the fray with new names. After the situation became clear in court, Congress also faced defeat in the court of public opinion," he said.
Bhatt said that the police have clearly explained the facts related to the alleged VIP and the demolition of the resort. He clarified that no evidence was destroyed due to the demolition; rather, the SIT had carefully collected all evidence beforehand, which proved sufficient to secure convictions.
He said that Congress's objective is to keep this sensitive issue alive and, under its cover, defame senior BJP leaders and incite public anger for personal political gain.
Bhandari, a resident of Pauri district, was employed at the Vanantra Resort in Rishikesh. It was alleged that the resort owner, Pulkit Arya, along with Saurabh Bhaskar and Ankit Gupta, murdered her by pushing her into a nearby barrage. (ANI)