Resort Owner Pulkit Arya, Two Others Convicted in Ankita Bhandari Murder Case
Pulkit Arya, owner of the Vanantara resort near Rishikesh, along with two of his employees, Saurabh Bhaskar and Ankit Gupta, have been convicted for the murder of 19-year-old receptionist Ankita Bhandari. Bhandari was found dead in a canal in September 2022, and her murder had sparked widespread outrage. The conviction marks a significant step towards justice in a case that highlighted issues of women's safety and exploitation.
Unpacked:
Ankita Bhandari was reportedly murdered after she resisted pressure from the resort owner, Pulkit Arya, and his employees to provide 'extra services' to a VIP guest. Her refusal led to a confrontation, after which she was forcibly pushed into the canal by the accused.
Pulkit Arya, Saurabh Bhaskar, and Ankit Gupta were all convicted under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including murder and sexual harassment. They were sentenced to life imprisonment by the Kotdwar court.
The case drew widespread outrage due to its connection to issues of women's safety, alleged sexual exploitation, and the fact that Pulkit Arya is the son of a former BJP leader. The political links and public protests amplified calls for justice.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led the probe, filing a 500-page chargesheet. The trial began in January 2023, with 47 out of 97 witnesses examined over more than two years, leading to the conviction of all three accused.