Dehradun: Various social organisations and members of the Nyay Yatra Sanyukt Sangharsh Manch, an umbrella body seeking justice in the Rishikesh resort murder case, have expressed concern over the delay in securing justice for the victim and announced plans to intensify their agitation.The activists said the CBI probe was announced nearly six months ago, but no significant progress has been made. They alleged that the slow pace of the investigation was a matter of serious concern.“If the CBI probe is not expedited and strong arguments are not presented in the high court to oppose the convicts’ bail pleas, people across the state will take to the streets. The state govt must pursue the case vigorously, ensure the convicts’ sentences are not reduced under any circumstances and oppose their bail,” said Nirmala Bisht of Uttarakhand Mahila Manch, which has been at the forefront of the campaign for justice.The next hearing is scheduled for July 20, when the three convicts are expected to press for a reduction in their sentences and seek bail.The forum also questioned why the CBI had not interrogated those whose names allegedly surfaced in connection with the purported VIP angle. It demanded an impartial probe into allegations that evidence was destroyed using bulldozers and alleged that a fair investigation was not possible while the chief minister remained in office.“The CBI should disclose the current status of the investigation. Despite months having passed, no clear information has been shared about its progress, leaving the victim’s family in the dark,” said Mohit Dimri of the manch.Sept 18 will mark four years since the murder. Activists warned that if the CBI failed to complete the investigation and take concrete action against those responsible, including probing the alleged VIP angle, by then, the agitation would be intensified and expanded.The activists urged the govt to ensure a transparent investigation and said no influential person should be shielded. They added that securing justice for the victim’s family was the responsibility of both society and the state, and the govt must be held accountable.
