Ankita Bhandari’s Parents Protest Dushyant Gautam’s Sikkim Governor Appointment

The Ankita Bhandari case has returned to national attention after her parents staged a protest at India Gate in New Delhi on Wednesday. Virendra Singh Bhandari and Soni Devi urged President Droupadi Murmu to keep the appointment of Dushyant Kumar Gautam as Sikkim Governor on hold until the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) completes its inquiry into their daughter’s 2022 murder. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra met the family at the protest site.

Family Fears Constitutional Immunity

The parents say they fear Gautam’s constitutional position as Governor could shield him from future legal action if the investigation points towards him. Their demand has renewed focus on the family’s allegation that an unidentified “VIP” was connected to the events leading to the murder. Speaking at the protest, the family said Gautam should be behind bars rather than holding a constitutional office.

The family has alleged that Gautam was linked to this “VIP” angle. However, the allegation has not been proved in court. Gautam has firmly denied any involvement and has initiated legal proceedings against statements connecting him to the crime.

CBI Probe and Court Restrictions

The CBI investigation into the case is still continuing. Gautam has also filed a defamation case, and courts have restricted social media posts that link him to the murder. The restrictions reflect the legal sensitivity of the matter while the inquiry remains unfinished.

The presence of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra at India Gate has added a political dimension to the family’s campaign. For Ankita’s parents, though, the demand remains simple: no final decision on the Governor’s appointment until the CBI completes its work and the truth is established. The President’s office has not yet responded to the family’s appeal.