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Rahul Gandhi criticises early morning detention of Ankita Bhandari's parents

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has condemned the detention of the parents of Ankita Bhandari at India Gate in the early hours, alleging it reflects the government's approach to silence victims' voices and suppress dissent.

LSN India · 15 October 2026

Rahul Gandhi criticises early morning detention of Ankita Bhandari's parents

Rahul Gandhi has launched a sharp attack on the central government over the detention of Ankita Bhandari's parents at India Gate at 4 am, characterising the action as emblematic of official strategy to muzzle grieving families and those seeking accountability.

In a post on social media platform X, Gandhi alleged that the government's approach reflected a pattern of suppressing voices demanding justice. "This is the hallmark of this government: silence the voices of the victims, remove those who ask questions," the Congress MP stated, drawing attention to what he described as authoritarian tactics.

The detention occurred as Ankita Bhandari's parents were engaged in activities at the national monument, a location frequently used for public demonstrations and protests. The incident has reignited debate around police conduct and freedom of expression in the national capital.

The case of Ankita Bhandari, a receptionist found dead in a river in Uttarakhand in 2022, has remained a focal point for discussions on women's safety and accountability. Her parents have been vocal in their pursuit of justice, with the case continuing to draw public and political attention across the country.