Victims' Father Demands Governor's Ouster Within 24 Hours, Threatens Nationwide Protest

The parents of a young woman killed at a Rishikesh resort in 2022 staged a pre-dawn protest at India Gate, which Delhi Police broke up and briefly detained along with activist Yogita Bhayana and several Congress members. After being released, the victim’s father issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding the dismissal of Dushyant Kumar Gautam from his role as Sikkim governor, threatening a nationwide agitation that would begin in Delhi if the demand is not met.

The family has also asked for an audience with President Droupadi Murmu to present their grievances. Rahul Gandhi, leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, sent a separate letter to the President, arguing that the governor’s constitutional immunity could shield him from prosecution while the CBI probe—still examining a possible VVIP’s involvement—remains unfinished. Congress leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and KC Venugopal, joined the demonstration, whereas Uttarakhand women and child welfare minister Rekha Arya criticised the political use of the case, noting that three accused have already received life sentences. The episode underscores growing tension between the ruling party and opposition over accountability in a high-profile murder investigation.