New Delhi: Nearly ten days after Noida-based model and actor Twisha Sharma was found hanging at her matrimonial home in Bhopal, her husband Samarth Singh remains missing. In the aftermath of her death, Twisha’s mother-in-law, Giribala Singh—a retired judge—has publicly questioned the young woman’s behaviour and personality. Among other claims, Giribala alleged that Twisha had chosen to undergo an abortion and was suffering from schizophrenia while receiving psychiatric treatment.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has strongly criticised these remarks. NCW Chairperson Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar described the comments as “painful and heartbreaking” and condemned what she termed the character assassination of Twisha Sharma along with the language used by her mother-in-law.
Rahatkar said the NCW has taken suo motu cognizance of the case and demanded an Action Taken Report from the concerned authorities. The Commission has written to Madhya Pradesh’s Director General of Police and Chief Secretary, urging a transparent, impartial, and swift investigation.
Rahatkar expressed disbelief that alleged dowry-related harassment continues to occur despite growing societal awareness. She noted that society expects higher standards of sensitivity and responsibility from individuals who have held positions like that of a judge. If the allegations against Giribala Singh prove true, strict action must follow, she added.
Giribala Singh is among the accused in the dowry death case registered in connection with Twisha’s death. She was granted interim bail on May 15 after submitting a bond of Rs 50,000.
The NCW chief extended full support to Twisha’s family in their pursuit of justice. The Commission has specifically directed investigators to examine CCTV footage, chat records, call logs, mobile data, and financial transactions to ensure no critical evidence is overlooked. Rahatkar emphasised that police must conduct the probe without any laxity or external influence.
Twisha’s family has accused the in-laws of character assassination and raised concerns over alleged shortcomings in the police investigation. They have also demanded a second post-mortem, a request so far rejected by a Madhya Pradesh court. The family is now considering approaching the High Court.
Rahatkar reiterated that respect for women must begin at home and within society. She stressed that holding powerful positions carries no value without basic humanity, dignity, and regard for women. The NCW chief’s intervention adds significant weight to calls for a thorough and unbiased inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Twisha Sharma’s death.