The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has formally taken over the investigation into the 2023 death of Mira Road resident Asmita Mishra, registering a fresh First Information Report (FIR) against her husband and five members of his family following directions from the Bombay High Court.
The case, which has drawn significant attention over allegations of dowry harassment and questions surrounding the circumstances of Asmita’s death, is now under fresh investigation after the High Court identified shortcomings in the earlier police probe.
Bombay High Court Ordered Independent Investigation
The CBI’s involvement follows an order passed by the Bombay High Court earlier this year, transferring the investigation from the Kashimira Police to the central agency.
In its observations, the High Court noted apparent inconsistencies in the original investigation and said the matter required a fair, impartial and effective inquiry.
The court highlighted concerns regarding the documentation of the crime scene, aspects of the post-mortem examination and conflicting accounts relating to the circumstances surrounding the death.
The court’s order did not determine the guilt or innocence of any individual, but directed that the investigation be conducted independently.
Fresh FIR Names Six Accused
According to the newly registered CBI FIR, Asmita Mishra married Abhay Manish Mishra on November 20, 2021.
The FIR names six accused:
- Abhay Mishra
- Manish Mishra
- Premlata Mishra
- Payal Mishra
- Purnima Mishra
- Jayraj Mishra
The allegations include offences related to:
- Dowry death
- Cruelty by husband or relatives
- Cheating
- Criminal breach of trust
- Alleged forced abortion
- Abetment of suicide
The allegations contained in the FIR are accusations made by the investigating agency and have not been proven in a court of law. The accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Allegations Detailed in the FIR
According to the CBI, Asmita’s family allegedly spent more than ₹15.5 lakh in cash and approximately ₹17.35 lakh on jewellery and other wedding gifts during the marriage.
Investigators have alleged that the groom’s family misrepresented Abhay Mishra’s educational qualifications, financial status and business interests before the marriage.
The FIR further alleges that after the wedding, Asmita faced continuous harassment and cruelty.
Among the allegations recorded by the agency are claims that:
- Her jewellery and valuables were taken away.
- Her salary was allegedly controlled by her husband.
- Additional money and property were repeatedly demanded from her family.
- She was allegedly pressured to transfer ownership of a flat in Mira Road.
- She was allegedly forced to undergo an abortion in November 2022 against her wishes.
These allegations remain subject to investigation.
Family Raised Questions After Death
According to the FIR, on February 24, 2023, Asmita’s husband informed her family that she had died by suicide at her matrimonial home.
However, members of her family later claimed they noticed injury marks on her face, neck and cheeks after seeing her body.
Based on these observations, relatives questioned whether the death had been staged and sought a more detailed investigation.
The exact cause and manner of death remain under investigation.
CBI Begins Fresh Investigation
Following the High Court’s order, the CBI has initiated a fresh probe into the case.
The agency is expected to independently examine the evidence collected during the earlier investigation, review forensic material, question witnesses and determine whether additional evidence supports the allegations made in the FIR.
No findings have yet been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Timeline of the Case
- November 20, 2021: Asmita Mishra marries Abhay Manish Mishra.
- November 2022: FIR includes allegations of a forced abortion.
- February 24, 2023: Asmita dies at her matrimonial home.
- 2025: Bombay High Court transfers the investigation to the CBI after identifying shortcomings in the earlier probe.
- 2026: CBI registers a fresh FIR and begins a new investigation.
