Twisha Sharma final rites in Bhopal after AIIMS Delhi 2nd autopsy
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Model-turned-actor Twisha Sharma's final rites were performed at Bhadbhada Vishram Ghat, Bhopal, at 5 pm on Sunday, 25 May, thirteen days after she was found dead at her in-laws' residence under circumstances that have triggered public outrage and demands for an independent investigation. The cremation followed a second post-mortem examination conducted by a senior medical board from AIIMS Delhi at AIIMS Bhopal, ordered after her family contested the findings of the initial autopsy carried out on 13 May.
The Second Autopsy
A four-member medical board from AIIMS Delhi arrived in Bhopal on Saturday evening to conduct the fresh examination and meet the family to address their concerns. The team is led by Dr Sudhir Gupta, Head of the Department of Forensic Medicine at AIIMS Delhi. The second autopsy was ordered specifically in response to objections raised by the Sharma family over the first post-mortem report. The outcome of the second examination is expected to be central to the ongoing investigation.
Family's Statement: 'Profound Grief and Prolonged Uncertainty'
In an emotional statement issued ahead of the cremation, Twisha's father, Navnidhi Sharma, described the past thirteen days as a period of 'profound grief, unbearable sorrow, and prolonged uncertainty.' The family's statement read: 'It is with profound grief, unbearable sorrow, and a heavy heart that the family of Late Twisha Sharma announces that her final rites and cremation shall be performed today at 5:00 PM at Bhadbhada Vishram Ghat, Bhopal.'
The family noted that the extended delay had compounded their emotional trauma, particularly as several Hindu post-death rituals are traditionally observed within the 13-day mourning period. 'This painful reality has left the family emotionally shattered,' the statement added.
Husband Arrested, Sent to Police Remand
Twisha's husband, Samarth Singh, was arrested on Friday evening from Jabalpur and subsequently sent to seven days' police remand by a Bhopal district court on Saturday. His arrest marks a significant development in the case, which authorities are investigating under circumstances that the family has publicly disputed as amounting to more than a suicide.
Family's Plea for a Fair Probe
The Sharma family stated it has cooperated fully with the investigation and continues to place faith in the legal process. 'The family's only request is that all investigations be conducted fairly, transparently, independently, and strictly in accordance with law,' their statement said. This comes amid sustained pressure from the public and civil society for an impartial inquiry into the circumstances of Twisha's death on 12 May.
With the second autopsy report awaited and the husband in police custody, the case is expected to enter a critical phase in the days ahead.