A Bhopal court has dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of absconding lawyer Samarth Singh in connection with the suspicious death of model and actress Twisha Sharma. Simultaneously, police have announced a cash reward for any information leading to his arrest.
WhatsApp Messages Cited by Prosecution
During the hearing, the prosecution presented WhatsApp messages allegedly sent by Twisha to her mother days before her death. In one message dated May 9, she purportedly wrote, "Maa aap mujhe yaha se lene aa jao kal please," while another described her life as "narak" (hell) and complained that her husband had stopped speaking to her. The defense has denied all allegations, arguing that the messages were edited and unreliable.
Background of the Case
Twisha Sharma, 33, was found hanging at her marital home in Bhopal's Katara Hills area on May 12, just months after her marriage to Samarth Singh in December 2025. The defense opposed arrest by questioning Twisha's mental health and alleging she was a psychiatric patient and drug addict—claims strongly contested by her family.
Court's Decision and Family's Reaction
Sessions court judge Pallavi Dwivedi rejected the pre-arrest bail application, citing the risk of evidence tampering. The court had earlier granted anticipatory bail to Twisha's mother-in-law, retired judge Giribala Singh, who is also an accused. Twisha's father, Navnidhi Sharma, called the decision a partial step toward justice and demanded the immediate arrest of both accused, alleging influence and attempts to secure relief in higher courts.
Allegations of Harassment and Pregnancy
Navnidhi Sharma further alleged that Samarth Singh had refused to acknowledge Twisha's pregnancy and that she had faced sustained harassment after losing her job. Police have stated that the initial post-mortem at AIIMS Bhopal indicates death by hanging, but the family has alleged multiple injuries suggesting foul play.
Investigation and Forensic Lapses
Investigators admitted that the rope allegedly used in the hanging was not sent for forensic examination, and action will be taken against the responsible officer. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is continuing its probe under dowry harassment and abetment provisions, regardless of the defense's claims.
