CBI probe in Twisha case intensifies
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday intensified its investigation into the death of former model-turned-actor Twisha Sharma by visiting the Bhopal residence of her mother-in-law, retired judge Giribala Singh, and later meeting Twisha’s family members as part of the ongoing probe.
A Special Crime Unit of the CBI, including women officers, reached Giribala Singh’s residence in the Katara Hills area and interacted with family members while collecting documents and other evidence related to the case. Officials said the agency later proceeded to the Army Cantonment Kurushetra Mess in the old city’s Shahjehanabad area, where Twisha’s family is currently staying.
The CBI formally took over the investigation on Monday night and re-registered the FIR earlier lodged by Madhya Pradesh Police against Twisha’s husband, lawyer Samarth Singh, and retired district judge Giribala Singh. The agency has booked both accused under charges related to dowry death and alleged destruction of evidence.
Twisha Sharma was found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal on May 12. While her husband’s family claimed she committed suicide, her family has consistently alleged murder and accused the in-laws of attempting to influence the investigation.
The agency’s intervention came amid mounting controversy over alleged procedural lapses in the initial investigation and concerns raised by Twisha’s family regarding possible tampering with evidence. According to sources, the CBI is examining allegations that police were informed several hours after Twisha’s death, allowing crucial time during which evidence may have been disturbed.
Separate applications seeking preservation of Call Detail Records (CDR) and CCTV footage have also been filed before a Bhopal district court. Twisha’s family has sought protection of mobile records, while Giribala Singh’s side has moved an application for preservation of CCTV footage from the residence. The court is scheduled to hear both applications.
Regarding the gymnastics belt reportedly used in the hanging, Bhopal Police officials said the belt had been seized and later sent to the forensic laboratory in Sagar for examination. Following a request from AIIMS Delhi, the police have also written to the forensic laboratory and cyber cell regarding the evidence.
During questioning by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) before the case was handed over to the CBI, Samarth Singh allegedly claimed that Twisha had been under stress following a miscarriage. Investigators are also probing allegations of an additional dowry demand of Rs 20 lakh, which reportedly formed the basis for the dowry death case registered by the CBI.
The agency is expected to continue questioning the accused and examining forensic, digital, and medical evidence over the coming days as the high-profile case remains under intense public and legal scrutiny.
