In the much talked about Ankita Bhandari case of Uttarakhand, the government led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has shown sensitivity and strict action from the very beginning. The government has ensured that there is no laxity at any level in this fight for justice. Taking prompt action within just 24 hours of the incident coming to light, the police arrested the main accused and sent them behind bars and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to investigate the matter impartially.
Considering the seriousness of the case, SIT filed a strong chargesheet in the court on the basis of solid evidence and witnesses. The prosecution made effective lobbying in the court, as a result of which action was also taken against the accused under the Gangster Act and the court sentenced the culprits to life imprisonment as per the legal process. Apart from this, respecting the sentiments and demands of the victim’s family, the government made changes in the government lawyers and also took forward the process of CBI investigation as per the demand of the parents.
To provide social and economic support to the victim’s family, the state government took concrete steps to provide financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh as well as to provide employment to the family members. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has a clear message that crimes against women will not be tolerated at all and providing justice to every victim’s family is the top priority of the government. This entire episode presents a strong example of administrative accountability and sensitivity of governance.