Indian Model Twisha Sharma Dies; Family Alleges Dowry Murder, In-Laws Claim Suicide

The death of 33-year-old model and actor Twisha Sharma in Bhopal on 12 May has ignited a media frenzy in India. Sharma, married for just five months to lawyer Samarth Singh, was found deceased in her marital home.

Conflicting Accounts Emerge in Bhopal Death Investigation

Sharma’s parents and siblings assert she endured torture from Singh and his mother, retired judge Giribala Singh, over dowry demands and was ultimately murdered. Giribala Singh, however, dismisses these accusations as “baseless”, instead claiming Sharma had mental health issues and died by suicide.

Police official Rajnish Kashyap Kaul confirmed a dowry death case has been registered against the Singhs. Authorities are pursuing Samarth Singh, who is currently at large, with a cash reward offered for information leading to his whereabouts and a lookout notice issued to prevent his departure from the country. While a Bhopal court granted anticipatory bail to Giribala Singh, Samarth Singh’s bail application was rejected, requiring him to surrender by 23 May.

Giribala Singh stated she is unaware of her son's location but indicated he intends to seek High Court bail. She told Mojo Story that legal advice prompted him to stay away, warning he would face public hostility.

Family Demands Second Autopsy Amid Scrutiny of In-Laws' Conduct

Sharma’s family has refused cremation and requested a second post-mortem examination. The initial autopsy, while indicating death by hanging, also noted injuries sustained prior to her death. The High Court approved the family's request. The case's high profile stems from Sharma’s background as a model and actor, coupled with the judicial standing of her in-laws, which has drawn considerable public attention and a