The Sikkim University Students’ Association (SUSA) has asked authorities to reconsider the appointment of Dushyant Kumar Gautam as the Governor of Sikkim. This request comes amid unresolved allegations related to the 2022 murder of 19-year-old Ankita Bhandari in Uttarakhand. SUSA emphasizes the need for transparency in the investigation and clarity about the identity of the alleged VIP reportedly connected to the case.
- SUSA urges impartial investigation and accountability before confirming Gautam’s appointment.
- Ankita Bhandari’s family demands cancellation of the appointment with a 24-hour ultimatum.
- Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has written to the President requesting reconsideration.
- Dushyant Gautam denies allegations and has filed defamation proceedings.
Why does SUSA want a review of Dushyant Gautam’s appointment?
SUSA raised concerns about allegations linking Gautam to an unidentified VIP reportedly involved in the Ankita Bhandari murder case. The students’ association insists that the investigation must be impartial and transparent. They argue that no appointment should proceed without due process and accountability, especially when serious allegations remain unresolved.
What actions have Ankita Bhandari’s family taken?
Ankita’s parents have issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the government, demanding the cancellation of Gautam’s appointment as Governor. They have expressed their intention to continue protesting until the appointment is revoked. Ankita’s mother mentioned the possibility of a hunger strike if their protest is not permitted to continue. The family has warned that failure to act could lead to widespread public demonstrations across the country.
How has political leadership responded to the situation?
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has written a letter dated October 15, 2026, to President Droupadi Murmu. In the letter, he urged the President to reconsider Gautam’s appointment due to the ongoing Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the alleged VIP connection in the case. Gandhi expressed concern about the investigation’s status and the unresolved identity of the alleged VIPs, highlighting the need for caution while the inquiry continues.
What is Dushyant Gautam’s response to the allegations?
Dushyant Gautam has denied all allegations linking him to the Ankita Bhandari murder case. He has also initiated defamation proceedings against those making the claims. It is important to note that these allegations have not been proven in any court of law.
What does SUSA demand regarding the investigation?
SUSA has called for full transparency in the investigation process. They stress that allegations should not be treated as facts without legal confirmation. The association seeks clarity on the identity of the alleged VIP and insists on adherence to due process before any official appointments are finalized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Dushyant Kumar Gautam?
A: Dushyant Kumar Gautam is the appointed Governor of Sikkim, whose appointment is currently under review due to allegations related to the Ankita Bhandari murder case.
Q: What is the Ankita Bhandari case?
A: Ankita Bhandari was a 19-year-old woman who was murdered in Uttarakhand in 2022. The case involves allegations of involvement by a VIP, which is under investigation.
Q: Has Gautam been proven guilty?
A: No, the allegations against Gautam have not been established in court. He denies the charges and has filed defamation cases.
Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
A: The investigation is ongoing, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) looking into the alleged VIP angle.
Q: What actions are being requested by SUSA and Ankita’s family?
A: They are requesting transparency, an impartial investigation, and the cancellation of Gautam’s appointment as Governor until the case is resolved.
