Twisha Sharma case: Bhopal Court rejects second autopsy; police hunt for absconding Samarth Singh
Twisha Sharma death case: The Bhopal District Court has dismissed a plea seeking a second post-mortem examination of actor Twisha Sharma at AIIMS Delhi, even as concerns grow over the preservation of her body due to the lack of ultra-low temperature storage facilities in Bhopal.
by Zee Media Bureau · Zee NewsTwisha Sharma death case: The Bhopal District Court has dismissed a plea seeking a second post-mortem examination of actor Twisha Sharma at AIIMS Delhi, even as concerns grow over the preservation of her body due to the lack of ultra-low temperature storage facilities in Bhopal. At the same time, the court has intensified scrutiny of the absconding accused, Samarth Singh, announcing measures that could prevent him from leaving the country.
Judicial Magistrate Anudita Gupta, in an order dated May 19, rejected the family’s request for a fresh autopsy, which had been sought on the grounds of alleged inconsistencies in the investigation. The court found no sufficient reason to permit a second post-mortem examination at AIIMS Delhi.
Twisha Sharma's body preservation issue raises concern
However, the hearing brought renewed attention to a separate and urgent issue, the preservation of Twisha Sharma’s body, which is currently kept at the AIIMS Bhopal mortuary. Hospital authorities informed the court that the body requires storage at minus 80 degrees Celsius to prevent decomposition, but no such facility is available in Bhopal.
Taking note of the situation, the court directed the concerned Station House Officer to immediately identify whether ultra-low temperature preservation facilities are available at medical institutions across Madhya Pradesh, other states, or even private hospitals. A detailed written report has been sought without delay.
AIIMS Bhopal lacks an ultra-low temperature storage facility
The concern over decomposition had already been flagged by the Bhopal Police before the hearing. Officials formally informed Twisha Sharma's father, Navnidhi Sharma, that the absence of specialised storage facilities at AIIMS Bhopal could lead to decomposition if arrangements were not made urgently. The communication added to the pressure surrounding the handling and custody of the body.
Samarth Singh absconding; Rs 10,000 reward announced
Meanwhile, the investigation into the case has been complicated by the continued disappearance of Samarth Singh. During the hearing, the Assistant Public Prosecutor informed the court that Singh remains absconding and that a reward of Rs 10,000 has been announced for information leading to his arrest.
The prosecution further argued that there was a strong possibility that Singh could attempt to flee abroad to evade legal proceedings. Considering the submission, the court issued notice to Singh, asking him to explain why his passport should not be cancelled or suspended. Directions were also sought from the Regional Passport Officer in Arera Hills, Bhopal, to prevent any potential attempt to leave the country.
Court to hear Twisha Sharma case again on May 23
During the same proceedings, Advocate Enosh George Carlo, appearing on behalf of Singh, filed an application under Section 175 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The court has now listed the matter for May 23, when it is expected to review the police report and take up further proceedings in the case.