MP Govt Hands Twisha Sharma Case to CBI; HC Defers Husband's Bail Hearing

High Court adjourns anticipatory bail plea as investigation shifts to federal agency

CBI TO TAKE OVER PROBE

The Madhya Pradesh government has formally handed over the death investigation of actress-model Twisha Sharma to the Central Bureau of Investigation, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn public attention and political scrutiny. The decision came after mounting pressure from the victim's family and demands from legislators for a federal-level inquiry.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav had assured Twisha's father, Navnidhi Sharma, during a meeting on May 20 that the government would extend full support. The CM also offered to arrange transportation of the mortal remains to AIIMS Delhi if the court orders a second autopsy, signalling the state's commitment to a transparent probe.

FAMILY ACCUSES ABSCONDING HUSBAND

The victim's family has raised serious concerns about potential interference in the investigation. Navnidhi Sharma alleged that his son-in-law, Samarth Singh—whose anticipatory bail hearing was deferred Thursday—served as a legal advisor to the MP government between July 2023 and August 2025. The family fears this connection could be leveraged to influence the case while Singh remains absconding.

In his opposition to the anticipatory bail plea, Navnidhi Sharma also demanded the removal of Katara Hills police station in-charge Sunil Dubey from the investigation, citing concerns over the conduct of the probe.

MOTHER-IN-LAW'S NON-COOPERATION

Bhopal Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar informed the media that Twisha's mother-in-law, Giribala Singh, had been issued three notices for non-cooperation with investigators. "Since she failed to provide necessary assistance, we have filed a petition in the High Court seeking cancellation of her anticipatory bail," the Commissioner said.

The move reflects the police's frustration with key suspects' refusal to cooperate during the preliminary investigation phase. Giribala Singh's anticipatory bail status now hangs in the balance as the case transitions to the CBI.

BAIL HEARING POSTPONED

The High Court's Jabalpur bench, headed by Justice A.K. Singh during the summer vacation, adjourned Samarth Singh's anticipatory bail hearing after the Advocate General requested time to present the case diary. The matter will be heard again at 2:30 PM, with the court expected to make a decision on whether Singh should be granted pre-arrest bail.

The postponement gives the CBI additional time to review the case file and determine its investigative strategy.

POLITICAL PRESSURE BUILDS

Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha had publicly demanded a CBI inquiry, joining the family's calls for a federal-level investigation. The shift from state police to the central agency signals the gravity with which authorities are now treating the case.

The involvement of the CBI is expected to bring greater scrutiny and standardized investigative protocols, potentially accelerating the pace of the probe. With the family alleging potential political connections and interference, the federal agency's impartiality will be crucial to restoring public confidence in the investigation.

The case now enters a critical phase. The CBI will inherit a complex investigation involving questions about the circumstances of Twisha's death, allegations of foul play, and concerns over attempts to obstruct justice. How quickly the agency can establish the facts and determine accountability will define the outcome.