The son of a former high-ranking Punjab police official was discovered deceased under mysterious circumstances at his residence in Panchkula in August. Prior to his passing, the son, Aqil Akhtar, made allegations against his father in a video, claiming that his father was engaged in an extramarital affair with his wife and was allegedly scheming his murder. Aqil also implicated his mother and sister in a purported plan to harm him or falsely incriminate him.
Aqil asserted that he was unjustly confined, sent for rehabilitation, and had his business earnings withheld. He detailed instances of psychological torment, physical mistreatment, and threats of false legal charges against him.
The pre-recorded video, featuring Aqil, was handed over to the authorities by a neighbor, Shamshuddin Chaudhary, who lodged a formal complaint seeking a thorough investigation. Akeel was discovered unconscious at his home by his family, who initially attributed his demise to a drug overdose. However, suspicions of foul play were raised following Chaudhary’s complaint and the video recorded by Aqil.
In the video, Aqil narrated the distress he has been enduring since his marriage, revealing the affair between his father and his spouse that he uncovered in 2018. He also alleged hearing discussions between his mother and sister about harming him or framing him falsely.
Chaudhary’s complaint highlighted the strained relations between Aqil and his family, urging authorities to probe the suspicious death, citing Aqil’s video as a clear indication of potential danger to his life. The complaint called for a comprehensive review of Aqil’s social media activities, digital data, call logs, post-mortem report, and the possible involvement of family members or associates to ensure justice.
However, a subsequent video emerged in which Aqil retracted his previous accusations and absolved his family of any wrongdoing, attributing his past claims to mental instability, specifically schizophrenia. Aqil commended his family for their care and support, stating that his sister had been particularly attentive.
A case has been registered against Aqil’s father, mother, ex-minister Razia Sultana, their daughter, and daughter-in-law under specific sections of the law. The investigation into the matter is ongoing.