The Supreme Court of India on Monday ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation to take over the probe into the death of 32-year-old actor-model Twisha Sharma, who was found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal on May 12.
A bench led by Justice Surya Kant recorded the Madhya Pradesh government's consent to a federal investigation, with the CBI expected to assume control within 24 hours.
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The court initiated suo motu proceedings after a media report raised concerns about potential institutional bias, as the victim's husband is an attorney and her mother-in-law is a retired judicial officer.
Court Emphasizes Fair Investigation
“The investigation has to be conducted fairly and dispassionately all through,” the bench observed, urging both parties to refrain from public statements and asking media to avoid broadcasting accounts from potential witnesses.
The court noted that public allegations suggested local judicial interference, adding, “We are against the narrative that is being created.
That is why CBI should take over.”
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the formal notification for the CBI probe would be issued shortly through the Department of Personnel and Training.
Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, representing Sharma's family, expressed concerns that critical evidence could be lost due to procedural delays.
The bench assured the family of impartiality, stating, “We will ensure that this incident is impartially investigated. Get your statements recorded.”
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The court also addressed the issue of media coverage, directing outlets to avoid recording statements from potential witnesses to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Sharma's mother-in-law, Giribala Singh, received anticipatory bail on May 15, which is being challenged.
The controversy escalated after she gave media interviews and declined to record her statement at the police station.
Senior advocate Siddhartha Dave, representing the accused, countered that confidential statements had been leaked to local newspapers.
The court finalized its order by directing the public to cease speculation and allow the federal agency to conduct its work without interference, stating that premature conclusions could negatively affect official findings.
Sharma was found dead on May 12 in the Katara Hills area, five months after marrying advocate Samarth Singh.
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Her husband surrendered to police on May 22 and remains in custody on allegations of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide.
