Following the murder of Manvendra Singh in Lucknow's Ashiana district, investigations have expanded beyond the immediate crime scene. Authorities are scrutinizing the activities of the accused son Akshat and daughter Kriti, especially their decision to privatize their Instagram accounts promptly after the incident and Akshat's immediate contact with a friend.
The police confirmed the shooting with a rifle, but the full motive remains under scrutiny. Investigators are devising an accurate timeline based on digital records, call logs, and location history. They are examining whether there was any attempt to conceal evidence or mislead the investigation post-crime.
Fear or Premeditation?
The immediate action of interest was the sudden privatization of both Akshat's and Kriti's Instagram accounts post-murder. Investigators suspect this move isn't coincidental. Digital experts suggest that following a serious crime, privatizing social media accounts may indicate a desire to avoid trolling or to distance oneself from potential scrutiny. Police are probing activities, interactions, and potential key message exchanges on these accounts, with indications that Kriti had multiple social media personas.
First Contact: A Friend
Sources reveal Akshat's first call post-murder was to a close friend. He disclosed the incident and initially considered surrender. However, concerns over leaving his sister Kriti alone swayed his decision, leading to a plan to dispose of the body. Police are critically examining whether this was a spontaneous or premeditated choice.
Financial Dispute Erupts
Acquaintances report that on February 19th, upon returning home, Manvendra Singh checked over 5 million INR set aside for liquor license renewal due by February 23rd. Finding discrepancies led to a heated argument with Akshat, during which Manvendra reportedly slapped Akshat and brandished a licensed rifle. Official police reports confirm the murder weapon as the licensed rifle. Yet neighborhood and family conversations hint at differing motives. Akshat cited NEET exam pressures, though records indicate he enrolled in a BBA program for 2025.
The Illusion of Normalcy
The most baffling discovery in the investigation is the siblings’ behavior post-murder — sleeping in the same room where the body was dismembered. Experts note perpetrators often exhibit anxiety or unusual behavior post-crime, but here an effort to maintain normalcy was apparent. Kriti attended her 11th-grade exams on February 20th and 21st, regularly attending APS school to avoid suspicion. Inside, the gruesome narrative unfolded while outward normalcy was strenuously maintained.
Previous Family Strains Surfacing
Three years prior, Manvendra transferred approximately half a million INR to his children's accounts, followed by Akshat's six-page note and departure, declaring himself an entrepreneur. Though resolved internally, investigators are revisiting the letter’s contents in light of current events.
Marital Concerns and Increased Household Discipline
Residents note Manvendra's increasingly stringent household rules in recent months, reportedly claiming sacrifices for his family. Contemplating remarriage and seeking advice added tension, exacerbating issues with Akshat. The police are considering these dynamics as part of the case.
Efforts to Mislead via Location Tracking?
Technical analysis highlighted Akshat's deliberate activation of his phone in Kakori on February 20th, intending to mislead last known locations. Near the Nadar Ganj canal, the police recovered dismembered limbs based on Akshat's guidance. Knives and saws found near the Transport Nagar railway track suggest procurement of gear for body disposal. When police brought Akshat home on February 24th, a crowd gathered, stirring local tensions.