The Supreme Court on Monday made sharp observations while hearing the sensational death case of actor-model Twisha Sharma, stressing that the investigation must remain “fair, independent and impartial” while warning against media trials and public speculation surrounding the matter.
Hearing the suo motu case linked to alleged procedural lapses and institutional bias in the probe, the apex court said the focus should remain on uncovering the truth through lawful investigation rather than through television debates and public commentary.
A bench headed by Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi, noted that one of the key concerns raised earlier — the demand for a second autopsy — had already been addressed.
“There were two or three aspects. One is with respect to the second autopsy, that is over,” the bench observed during the hearing.
The court, however, expressed discomfort over the manner in which the case was being publicly discussed. The Chief Justice remarked that the judiciary was “slightly at pain” because of statements being circulated by both sides in the media. The bench urged news platforms and the public to avoid relying on claims made either by the victim’s family or the accused camp while the probe remains active.
“Let the things move as per law and procedure,” the court said, adding that the investigation should proceed without external pressure or speculation.
The hearing also saw the Supreme Court reacting to allegations that the accused mother-in-law’s background as a former district judge could influence the investigation. The bench termed it “unfortunate” that doubts were being cast on the ability of investigative agencies and the judiciary to ensure fairness.
“We have no doubt that whoever investigates will take the investigation to its logical conclusion and find the truth,” the court observed.
Senior Advocate Siddharth Dave, appearing for the accused side, complained that witness statements recorded during the investigation were allegedly finding their way into newspapers within a day. Meanwhile, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Madhya Pradesh government, argued that repeated television appearances and public remarks were adding to the controversy.
The Solicitor General also informed the court that the state government had recommended transferring the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation.
Reiterating its stand, the Supreme Court said its sole concern was ensuring an unbiased investigation into the “unfortunate incident.” The bench requested both families to place their statements before investigators rather than in public forums.
“It is our request that whatever statement you want to make please make it before the authority that is the investigating agency,” the Chief Justice said, while also cautioning the media against “reducing their pain into sound bytes.”
At the same time, the court acknowledged that media scrutiny had also helped bring several aspects of the case into the public domain. The bench clarified that it was not against reportage but wanted restraint until the probe reached a conclusion.
Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra also raised questions over the handling of the investigation, alleging delays in FIR registration and concerns regarding preservation of evidence.
One of the strongest remarks during the hearing came from Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who commented on the broader issue of matrimonial disputes and alleged dowry harassment.
“Better to have a divorced daughter than a dead one,” Mehta told the court, a statement that quickly drew attention during proceedings.
In its order, the Supreme Court recorded the Centre’s assurance that the Central Bureau of Investigation would be requested to take over the investigation immediately. The bench also appealed to the public not to speculate about the case and instead trust the investigative process.
The court further clarified that none of its observations should be interpreted as comments on the merits of the allegations and said the investigating agency would independently examine every aspect of the matter.
