Raj govt to hand over Jodhpur beautician’s murder case to CBI

Jaipur: Over a month after beautician Anita Choudhary's dismembered body was found buried in the backyard of a house in Jodhpur, the state govt has recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the case. The decision, announced on Friday, follows weeks of protests by family members and right-wing Hindu organisations demanding the central agency's involvement.A senior official from the home department confirmed that the recommendation has been sent to the Union Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), which oversees CBI's administrative functions. The CBI will officially take over the case after DoPT approval.Anita Choudhary's body, cut into pieces, was exhumed on Oct 27. Police arrested the main accused, Gulamuddin, and his wife, Abida Parveen. While robbery was initially suspected as the motive, investigators have not ruled out the involvement of influential businessmen, leaving the motive unclear.The victim's family and supporters protested for nearly three weeks, refusing to cremate her body until their demands for a CBI probe were met. The body was cremated about 20 days after being exhumed, following the administration's assurance of a central investigation.The investigation has stalled as the victim's husband, son, and other family members have refused to cooperate with local authorities. "More than 12 notices have been served to the family members, including her husband and son, but they have refused to record their statements, insisting they will do so only after the CBI takes over the case. This delay is due to procedural requirements," said a police officer.Additionally, police have faced obstacles in searching Choudhary's beauty parlour and residence in Sardarpura due to the family's non-cooperation. A police officer described the delay as procedural but crucial for progressing in the case.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Happy Diwali wishes, messages and quotes !