Twisha Sharma death case: Madhya Pradesh HC quashes anticipatory bail of mother-in-law Giribala Singh

The case pertains to serious allegations under the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, as well as the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Wednesday quashed the anticipatory bail granted to Giribala Singh, the mother-in-law of the deceased Twisha Sharma, in connection with her death case.

The High Court overturned the relief earlier granted to Singh on May 15 by the 10th Additional Sessions Judge in Bhopal.

The case pertains to serious allegations under the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, as well as the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961.

Giribala Singh has been charged under Section 80(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for dowry death, Section 85 for cruelty by a husband or his relatives towards a woman, and Section 3(5) for acts committed by multiple persons in furtherance of a common intention. She has also been booked under Sections 3 and 4 of the Dowry Prohibition Act.

With the High Court setting aside the pre-arrest protection, law enforcement authorities are now cleared to take necessary legal action, including custodial interrogation if required. A further probe into the circumstances surrounding Twisha Sharma’s death is underway.

This development comes after the Madhya Pradesh High Court on Monday expedited legal proceedings in the Twisha Sharma unnatural death case, scheduling an urgent hearing for May 27 at 2:30 PM.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the probe and proceed with the matter expeditiously.

The directive was issued after a detailed hearing that considered multiple legal challenges pending before the trial court, the High Court, and the Supreme Court simultaneously.

Following extensive submissions by counsel representing the victim’s family, the accused, and the state government, the apex court disposed of the main petition by directing a centralised investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Also Read | 'Narrative being created...': SC on Twisha Sharma death case, assures fair investigation

What is Twisha Sharma death case?

33-year-old, Twisha Sharma was found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal's Katara Hills area on May 12. 

Noida-based Twisha Sharma, a former Miss Pune winner, had married Samarth Singh, a Bhopal-based lawyer, five months ago after meeting through a dating app.

Twisha’s family alleged that she was subjected to mental and physical harassment over dowry demands by her in-laws and accused them of abetting her suicide.

Also Read | Twisha Sharma death case: CBI takes over investigation, re-registers FIR after receiving police files