A Bhopal district court on Wednesday, 20 May 2026 rejected a petition seeking a second post-mortem examination of model and actor Twisha Sharma at AIIMS Delhi, even as her family continues to press for a fresh autopsy, alleging inconsistencies in the ongoing investigation. Judicial Magistrate Anudita Gupta dismissed the plea outright, while simultaneously directing authorities to assess whether ultra-low temperature storage for the body is available elsewhere in the country.

Court's Order on Second Post-Mortem

Judicial Magistrate Anudita Gupta stated in her order: 'Directions for conducting a second post-mortem examination at AIIMS Delhi for forensic analysis of the deceased dated 19-05-26 is hereby dismissed.' The ruling closes, at least for now, the family's push for an independent forensic review at a central institution. Twisha Sharma's family had cited alleged gaps and inconsistencies in the investigation as the basis for their demand.

Body Preservation Crisis at AIIMS Bhopal

A parallel concern before the court was the preservation of Twisha Sharma's body, currently held in the mortuary at AIIMS Bhopal. Authorities from the institution informed the court that the body requires storage at -80 degrees Celsius to prevent decomposition — a facility that is not available at AIIMS Bhopal.

The court accordingly directed the concerned Station House Officer (SHO) to immediately ascertain whether such ultra-low temperature preservation facilities exist at other higher medical institutions in Madhya Pradesh, other states, or private institutions, and to submit a written report without delay. Bhopal Police had already written to Twisha Sharma's father, Navnidhi Sharma, warning of potential decomposition given the storage limitations.

Accused Samarth Singh Absconding, Passport Under Scrutiny

During the same hearing, the Assistant Public Prosecutor informed the court that the accused, Samarth Singh, is currently absconding, and a reward of ₹10,000 has been announced for information leading to his arrest. The prosecution further argued that 'there is a strong possibility that the accused might flee abroad,' and sought directions to the Regional Passport Officer, Arera Hills, Bhopal, for the cancellation or suspension of his passport.

The court found it appropriate to first hear the accused and issued a show-cause notice to Samarth Singh, asking why his passport should not be cancelled or suspended. Directions were also issued to the SHO to ensure the notice is duly served.

Next Steps and Further Proceedings

Advocate Enosh George Carlo, appearing on behalf of the accused Samarth Singh, filed an application under Section 175(3) of the CrPC / Section 175 of the BNSS. The matter is scheduled to be taken up for production of the police report and further proceedings on 23 May 2026. The case continues to draw attention given the unresolved questions around the investigation and the logistical challenge of preserving the body pending legal proceedings.