Chandigarh: The circumstances surrounding the death of Aqil Akhtar, son of former Punjab DGP (Human Rights) Mohammad Mustafa and former minister Razia Sultana, continue to puzzle investigators as the initial post-mortem findings proved inconclusive. Authorities are now awaiting the viscera examination report to determine the exact cause of death.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that a syringe mark was discovered on Aqil’s arm, raising suspicions of a possible drug overdose. However, officials emphasized that the final conclusion can only be drawn once the forensic chemical analysis is completed.
A special investigation team (SIT), headed by ACP Vikram Nehra, has intensified its probe. The team has sought access to Aqil’s mobile phone and room for forensic inspection and is searching for a personal diary that, according to complainant Shamshudeen Chaudhary, may contain Aqil’s “dying declaration.” Investigators are also reviewing his medical and psychiatric records to understand any underlying health issues or treatments that could have played a role.
The Panchkula Police had earlier registered a case under Sections 103(1) and 61 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the Mansa Devi Complex (MDC) police station, following a complaint lodged by Chaudhary from Malerkotla. The complaint names Aqil’s parents, wife, and sister as accused and alleges that the death was “suspicious.”
The complainant also cited a social media video posted by Aqil in August, in which he purportedly accused certain family members of conspiring against him. Acting on the complaint, the FIR was registered on October 20, two days after it was submitted.
Panchkula DCP Srishti Gupta said the SIT was “examining every aspect with scientific precision.” She added, “No conclusion has been reached yet. All medical, forensic, and digital evidence will be thoroughly analyzed before drawing any inference.”
Meanwhile, Mohammad Mustafa released a statement describing the allegations as “deeply unfortunate,” while expressing confidence in the legal process. “The police have followed due procedure by registering the FIR. I respect their action and trust that the truth will soon emerge,” he said.
He further clarified that an FIR does not indicate guilt, and that the real investigation begins only after it is filed. “We have lost our young son—our grief is immeasurable—but we will not stay silent against false accusations or political manipulation,” Mustafa asserted.
The case continues to attract attention across Punjab, with officials emphasizing that no conclusion will be drawn until the viscera and digital evidence reports are finalized, leaving the true cause of Aqil Akhtar’s death still shrouded in uncertainty.
