On 12 May, the 33‑year‑old Indian model and actress Twisha Sharma was found dead in her Bhopal home. Media coverage exploded as her family and the court traced back the events that may have led to her untimely death.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) released a 600‑page chargesheet last week. It names Twisha’s husband Samarth Singh, a lawyer, and his mother Giribala Singh, a retired judge, to whom it attributes “abetment to suicide” and “cruelty.” The chargesheet alleges a pattern of mental cruelty, intimidation, and alleged dowry demands that pressured Twisha into an abortion.
Family’s claim: Twisha’s parents say their daughter was abused and forced to abort when she became pregnant, and after the death, they argue the family members acted with “continuous mental cruelty.”
The accused deny all accusations, stating Twisha suffered mental health problems and that she committed suicide. Samarth was detained after police located him; Giribala was arrested early in September. Both remain in detention and are awaiting court proceedings.
This case has sparked a broader conversation about social expectations, the role of the judiciary, and the influence of “dowry” in Indian families. It also raises questions about mental health support for young adults post‑marriage and the need for clear legal protections.
Photo credit: Twisha's family
