The Supreme Court on Monday made a series of powerful observations while hearing the controversial death case of Twisha Sharma, a 32-year-old woman found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal.
The matter was heard by a bench led by Surya Kant along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi.
The top court also directed that the probe be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation, citing the need for an impartial investigation amid allegations of institutional bias.
‘Better to Have a Divorced Daughter Than…’
One of the most discussed remarks during the hearing came from Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.
During arguments, Mehta reportedly said:
“Better to have a divorced daughter than to face such an unfortunate incident.”
The statement quickly gained attention online as the hearing focused on allegations of dowry harassment, investigative lapses and public controversy surrounding the case.
Supreme Court ‘Pained’ by Public Narrative
The Supreme Court expressed concern over claims that members of the judiciary were influencing or shielding the accused.
The court observed that it was “slightly in pain” over the public narrative developing around the case.
“We are slightly pained at the developments,” the bench remarked while stressing the importance of allowing the legal process to proceed fairly.
The accused in the case, Samarth Singh, is reportedly a practising lawyer, while his mother Giribala Singh is a former district judge.
CBI Probe Ordered
The Supreme Court confirmed that the only issue remaining was formal consent for the CBI investigation to proceed.
“The only issue as of now survives for consideration is consent to the recommendation for CBI probe,” the bench stated.
The court said an independent investigation would help restore confidence and ensure fairness for all parties involved.
Court Urges Media Restraint
The bench strongly urged the media to avoid sensationalising the matter and requested restraint in interviewing family members or potential witnesses.
“We will request our media friends not to go for statements of the victim’s family or the other family,” the court said.
The judges warned against turning witness statements and grieving family reactions into “sound bites,” saying such coverage could prejudice the investigation.
Twisha Sharma Family Raised ‘Institutional Bias’ Concerns
Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, appearing for Twisha Sharma’s family, argued that the case involved concerns of institutional bias and delays in filing the FIR.
The family has alleged dowry harassment, torture and possible foul play.
Meanwhile, the accused family has denied wrongdoing and reportedly claimed Sharma was battling personal issues.
What Happened in the Twisha Sharma Case?
Twisha Sharma was found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal’s Katara Hills area earlier this month.
The case triggered nationwide outrage after allegations emerged regarding:
- Delay in investigation
- Mishandling of forensic evidence
- Influence in the probe
- Media leaks and public statements
The case has since become one of the most closely watched legal controversies in the country.
Supreme Court Promises Fair Investigation
The Supreme Court assured Sharma’s family that the matter would now be investigated impartially.
“We will ensure that this incident is impartially investigated,” the bench said.
The court also clarified that it had not expressed any opinion on the merits of the allegations and that the investigating agency would independently examine all aspects of the case.
