The Supreme Court on Monday stressed the importance of a fair and unbiased investigation into the death of a former actor and model, supporting the Madhya Pradesh government’s recommendation for a CBI probe amid claims of institutional bias and growing public attention.
A three-judge bench headed by the Chief Justice heard the matter on its own initiative and stated that an independent agency should handle the inquiry to serve the interests of everyone involved.
The court referenced a May 18 news report that highlighted alleged bias and inconsistencies in the probe. The 33-year-old woman was found hanging at her in-laws’ home in Bhopal on May 12. Her relatives alleged dowry-related harassment and abetment to suicide, while the other side claimed she struggled with substance issues.
The Chief Justice noted that the report questioned impartiality due to the husband’s profession as a lawyer and the mother-in-law’s prior role as a district judge. Concerns were raised about possible undue influence in the inquiry because of the accused family’s background.
The bench observed that a perception of denied fairness had emerged due to judicial connections, prompting the suo motu action. It also noted the High Court’s order for a second post-mortem.
The court welcomed the state government’s decision to involve the CBI, stating that an independent body should assume control at this point. It expressed confidence in state agencies but acknowledged the created narrative.
The bench urged both parties and the media to refrain from public comments that might affect the investigation. It stressed that statements should be made only to the investigating agency.
The court expressed sympathy for the family’s suffering but emphasized adherence to legal procedures. The Solicitor General conveyed the family’s view that a divorced daughter is preferable to a deceased one.
The case gained national attention due to the accused family’s connections. The husband is a lawyer, and the mother-in-law is a retired district judge. Following protests, the state assured a CBI transfer. The husband was placed in police custody by a local court.
The Supreme Court initiated suo motu proceedings over transparency concerns in the initial inquiry and post-mortem. The woman’s family sought an independent examination at AIIMS Delhi, citing issues like blunt force injuries and incomplete analysis in the first examination.
Last rites took place in Bhopal on Sunday evening.
