Bhopal case: Post-mortem confirms ‘ante-mortem hanging’, family demands second autopsy

Bhopal: The probe into the death of Twisha Sharma, who was found hanging at her in-laws’ home in Bhopal’s Katara Hills area, is ongoing, with police officials stating that the post-mortem report has recorded the cause of death as “ante-mortem hanging.”

Assistant Police Commissioner Rajneesh Kashyap Kaul said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is actively collecting evidence and that efforts are underway to trace the absconding accused, including initiating steps to announce a reward for information leading to his arrest.

“The matter is under investigation. SIT is gathering all relevant evidence. Simultaneously, the police are searching for the absconding accused,” the officer said.

He added that the family has demanded a second post-mortem examination and has submitted a written application to the Police Commissioner of Bhopal, indicating they may also approach the court for further orders in the case.

According to officials, the post-mortem report has now been received and it mentions “ante-mortem hanging” as the cause of death. However, the investigation is also examining allegations of dowry harassment raised by the victim’s family.

The family of Twisha Sharma has alleged that she was subjected to harassment and has accused her husband Samarth Singh and his mother Giribala Singh, a retired judge, of involvement in her death. They have also staged protests seeking a fresh post-mortem at AIIMS Delhi and demanded stricter action.

Father of the deceased, Navnidhi Sharma says, "Why handover of the body should be taken when the case is dubious? The PM (postmortem) report and evidence do not match. This is the reason we have applied for second postmortem. We want the government to take cognizance. This is a high profile family. We have lost any hope for justice.”

Police have registered a case under relevant provisions related to dowry death and harassment and have formed an SIT to investigate all aspects, including alleged physical assault and claims of evidence tampering.

Authorities have confirmed that legal proceedings are ongoing and that multiple angles, including forensic evidence and witness statements, are being examined as part of the investigation.
(With ANI inputs)