Supreme Court Says Twisha Sharma Dowry Death Probe to Be Handed Over to CBI, Urges Media Restraint

May 25, 2026 : The Supreme Court has observed that the investigation into the alleged dowry death of former model and actor Twisha Sharma will be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), while cautioning the media against publishing statements and allegations that could influence the ongoing probe.

The matter was heard by a Bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, where Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that the Madhya Pradesh government had already recommended a CBI inquiry into the case. The Court was told that the formal process for transferring the investigation to the central agency would be completed shortly.

During the proceedings, the apex court underlined the need for a fair, impartial and transparent investigation, noting that the case had generated widespread public attention and intense media scrutiny. The Bench observed that entrusting the matter to an independent agency such as the CBI would help maintain the credibility of the investigation and reinforce public confidence in the justice delivery system.

The Court also expressed concern over extensive media reporting of statements made by the victim’s family members, the accused and other individuals connected with the case. It urged media organisations to avoid publishing material that may prejudice the investigation or affect the administration of justice. The Bench remarked that competing public narratives and speculative reporting could interfere with the inquiry process.

At the same time, the Court advised all parties involved to cooperate with the investigating agency and present their versions before the appropriate authorities rather than engaging in public discussions through television appearances or social media.

The proceedings stem from the death of Twisha Sharma, who was found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal earlier this month amid allegations of dowry harassment and claims of irregularities in the initial police investigation.

The Supreme Court had earlier taken suo motu cognisance of the matter under the title In Re: Alleged Institutional Bias and Procedural Discrepancies in the Unnatural Death of a Young Woman at her Matrimonial Home. The Court had also noted that a second post-mortem examination was conducted by a medical board constituted at AIIMS in compliance with earlier judicial directions.