CBI to probe Twisha Sharma's death, SC orders ‘fair investigation’ in ‘unfortunate, unnatural death’

Hearing the suo motu proceedings, a bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi, also cautioned all parties against turning the matter into a media spectacle, urging restraint in public commentary.

Top court flags 'narrative building'

During the hearing, the Chief Justice expressed concern over what he described as a “narrative” being created around the investigation, particularly suggestions that institutional bias was influencing the probe due to the professional background of the accused family members.

The bench reiterated that the death, described in court as an “unnatural incident,” must be examined strictly on evidence, stressing that neither the police nor the judiciary should be drawn into speculation.

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“The investigation must remain fair and without prejudice,” the bench observed, adding that the only issue before it was the formal handover of the case to the CBI as already recommended by the state government.

Media coverage under scrutiny

A significant portion of the hearing focused on media reporting and public statements made by both sides. The court said it was “slightly at pain” over the growing sensationalism surrounding the case and urged journalists not to amplify unverified statements from relatives or witnesses.

The bench also appealed to Twisha Sharma’s family to submit their statements directly to investigators rather than speaking publicly, cautioning that media narratives could prejudice the probe.

“We would like to impress upon the family that their versions should be recorded before the investigating agency,” the Chief Justice said.

Centre assures CBI takeover

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Madhya Pradesh government, informed the court that the matter had already been referred to the CBI and assured that necessary steps would be taken to ensure a smooth transfer of investigation.

He also alleged non-cooperation by certain individuals linked to the case and criticised attempts to “sensationalise” the matter through media appearances, while acknowledging that public discourse had already brought several details into the open.

Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra pointed to alleged lapses in the initial investigation, including a three-day delay in registering the FIR and concerns over preservation of evidence. He also flagged issues related to how certain records were being produced and handled.

However, the bench noted that since the probe was being handed over to the CBI, procedural concerns would now fall under the central agency’s jurisdiction and the investigation should proceed without external interference.

What's the case background? 

The Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance of the case on May 23 after widespread media reporting highlighted allegations of procedural irregularities and possible institutional bias in the investigation.

Twisha Sharma was found dead at her residence in Bhopal’s Katara Hills area on May 12. Her family has alleged dowry harassment and raised concerns over investigative lapses, including delays in FIR registration and inconsistencies in forensic handling.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court had earlier ordered a second post-mortem, conducted in Bhopal on May 24 under an AIIMS Delhi-appointed panel, after which the final rites were completed.

Meanwhile, her husband, Samarth Singh, the prime accused, has been sent to seven days of police remand. The state government has also sought cancellation of interim bail granted to the victim’s mother-in-law, citing alleged non-cooperation and concerns over evidence integrity.