New Delhi: A tragedy unfolded in Jamia Nagar when police discovered the decomposed body of a 65-year-old woman in her apartment and found her husband, 70, alive but in critical condition. The couple, identified as Aftab Jehan and Siraj Khan, were living with their 50-year-old intellectually challenged son, Imran, known locally as Shally.
The discovery was made on September 21 after relatives raised alarm. A PCR call at 11:10 p.m. reported that the couple was unresponsive and their son had locked himself inside the house. When police forced entry, they found Aftab Jehan lying lifeless on the bed while Siraj Khan was struggling to breathe. He was immediately taken to AIIMS Trauma Centre, where he is battling for survival.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Hemant Tiwari said there were no external injuries and it appeared to be a natural death. However, the distressing condition of the son drew equal concern. Neighbours told police that Shally, unable to grasp the situation, kept saying his parents were asleep. He had not eaten for days and had not sought help.
The couple’s daughter lives in Hong Kong, leaving the elderly parents to care for their son alone. Neighbours recalled that Siraj Khan, a retired music teacher from Jamia Millia Islamia, was a quiet figure who spent his days humming tunes, while Aftab Jehan devoted herself to the family. Residents described the incident as a painful reminder of the struggles faced by families with dependent adult children.
Jamia Nagar now mourns Aftab Jehan’s death and prays for Siraj Khan’s recovery, while uncertainty hangs over the fate of their vulnerable son.
