Former Punjab DGP and Spouse Face Charges in Son Aqil Akhtar's Death

In a disturbing turn of events, Haryana Police have charged former Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafa and his spouse, ex-minister Razia Sultana, in connection with the alleged murder of their son, Aqil Akhtar, aged 35. This development comes after social media posts surfaced that suggested he faced threats to his life. Originally classified as a natural death, the case has now emerged as one of the most gripping murder investigations in Punjab's recent history. An FIR has been lodged under Sections 103(1) and 61 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, indicating charges of criminal conspiracy and murder.

Aqil Akhtar was discovered unconscious at his residence in Sector 4, Panchkula, on the night of October 16. He was transported to a local healthcare facility, where medical personnel pronounced him dead upon arrival. Initially, the family suggested Aqil succumbed to a drug overdose, and a post-mortem was conducted the subsequent day prior to his funeral rites in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh. However, his social media activity raised red flags, leading officials to revisit the case for potential foul play.

The situation intensified when family associate Shamshudeen Chaudhary disseminated a video from August, wherein Aqil expressed concerns about his father's alleged affair with his wife, claiming that his life was in jeopardy. Aqil stated, “I have uncovered my wife's affair with my dad. I am under immense stress and mental trauma… I fear daily that they will trap me in a false legal case.” He included accusations against his mother and sister, suggesting they were complicit in a scheme to either imprison him or end his life.

Aqil also claimed that his family branded him as “mentally unstable” and forced him into a rehabilitation center unlawfully. He elaborated, “This confinement was illegal as I was not under the influence… They threaten me that should I take action against them, I would be framed for rape or murder.” In later recordings, Aqil seemed to retract these claims, citing mental health challenges, yet he still expressed fears for his safety, stating, “Will they orchestrate my demise? They are all deceitful.”

The Panchkula Police have now formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by an officer of ACP rank, to ensure a comprehensive and unbiased investigation. Deputy Commissioner Srishti Gupta affirmed, “The SIT will proceed with an open mindset and without bias, ensuring that justice is served for all involved.”

Mohammad Mustafa retired from his role as Punjab DGP in 2021, later transitioning to the Congress party. His wife, Razia Sultana, has notably served as a three-time MLA for Malerkotla and held a cabinet position from 2017 to 2022. The unfolding investigation continues to attract significant public interest, underscoring the role of social media evidence in high-stakes family disputes within criminal investigations.