Twisha Sharma cremated after second autopsy amid dowry probe
Former model-turned-actor Twisha Sharma was cremated in Bhopal after a second autopsy was conducted by a team of doctors from AIIMS Delhi. The cremation took place 12 days after her death, amid allegations of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide by her in-laws. The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the case, highlighting concerns over potential procedural irregularities and institutional bias.
Key Highlights
- Twisha Sharma cremated in Bhopal following a second autopsy.
- Family alleges dowry harassment and abetment to suicide by in-laws.
- AIIMS Delhi doctors conducted the second post-mortem.
- Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the case.
- Husband arrested, mother-in-law also an accused.
- CBI probe recommended amid concerns of procedural lapses.
The cremation of former model-turned-actor Twisha Sharma took place in Bhopal on Sunday, May 24, 2026, after a second post-mortem examination was conducted by a four-member medical team from AIIMS Delhi. This occurred 12 days after Sharma was found dead at her marital home on May 12, 2026. Her family has leveled serious allegations of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide against her in-laws, including her husband, Samarth Singh (a lawyer), and her mother-in-law, Giribala Singh (a retired district judge). The initial autopsy reports had raised concerns for Sharma's family, prompting them to refuse to receive her body until a second post-mortem was conducted. The Madhya Pradesh High Court subsequently ordered the fresh examination, which was carried out by the AIIMS team in Bhopal.
Twisha Sharma, an MBA graduate and former Miss Pune winner from Noida, had married Samarth Singh in December 2025. Her family claims that dowry demands continued even after the wedding, accompanied by mental abuse and torture. Conversely, her in-laws have suggested she suffered from drug addiction.
The case garnered significant national attention, leading the Supreme Court of India to take suo motu cognizance of the matter. The apex court expressed its displeasure over narratives suggesting the judiciary was shielding the accused and emphasized the need for an impartial investigation. The Supreme Court also urged both families and the media to exercise restraint and allow the legal process to unfold without prejudice.
Following the family's allegations of procedural lapses and potential institutional bias, the Madhya Pradesh government recommended a CBI probe into the death. The Supreme Court noted this recommendation and was assured that a decision on transferring the investigation to the CBI would be taken soon.
Samarth Singh, Twisha's husband, was arrested on May 22, 2026, after being on the run, and was subsequently sent to a seven-day police remand by a Bhopal court. His mother, Giribala Singh, is also an accused in the case.
Recent developments indicate that the second autopsy conducted by AIIMS doctors has confirmed that Twisha Sharma died of asphyxia resulting from hanging, with no injuries suggesting assault or a struggle. The CBI's chargesheet, however, also found that Twisha was subjected to mental cruelty by her husband after their marriage.
The case highlights the persistent issue of dowry-related crimes in India, with legal experts emphasizing the need for stricter guidelines and a more robust enforcement of dowry prohibition laws. The Supreme Court's involvement underscores the gravity of the allegations and the public concern surrounding the case.
The cremation ceremony itself was an emotional event, with Twisha's family members, including her inconsolable mother and brother, performing the last rites. Retired Major General Shyam Shrivastava of the Vardi Foundation pledged support to ensure Twisha's family gets justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Twisha Sharma?
Twisha Sharma, a former model-turned-actor, was found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal on May 12, 2026. Her family alleged dowry harassment and abetment to suicide by her in-laws. Following a second autopsy, she was cremated on May 24, 2026.
Why was a second autopsy performed on Twisha Sharma?
Twisha Sharma's family refused to accept the body after the initial autopsy, raising concerns about procedural lapses and inadequate examination. Consequently, the Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered a second post-mortem, which was conducted by a team of doctors from AIIMS Delhi.
What is the status of the legal case?
Twisha Sharma's husband, Samarth Singh, has been arrested and remanded to police custody. Her mother-in-law, Giribala Singh, is also an accused. The Supreme Court of India has taken suo motu cognizance of the case, and a CBI probe has been recommended, highlighting concerns about procedural irregularities and potential institutional bias.
What did the second autopsy reveal?
The second autopsy conducted by AIIMS Delhi doctors confirmed that Twisha Sharma died due to asphyxia resulting from hanging. The report found no injuries suggesting assault or a struggle prior to her death. However, the CBI probe also indicated that she faced mental cruelty from her husband.
