Inheritance Plot Turned Deadly: 9-Year-Old Stepson Strangled in Maharashtra’s Akot

A harrowing incident in Akot, Maharashtra, has shaken the nation: a nine-year-old boy, Darshan Palaskar, was allegedly strangled by his stepfather, Akash Kanhekar, over fears that Darshan, his stepson, could stake a claim on inherited property. The news is gaining widespread attention as authorities probe the motives and extend the investigation into a chilling case of family murder.

The Crime Unfolds

On July 2, Darshan’s mother reported him missing, stating he had left the home earlier in the afternoon and not returned. Crucially, CCTV footage from the Akola district showed Darshan boarding a two-wheeler with his stepfather, Kanhekar, and a male companion near Akot city around 3:05 pm lokmattimes.com+3indianexpress.com+3timesofindia.indiatimes.com+3.

Police swiftly arrested Kanhekar (35) and his associate Gaurav Gaigole (36) the same evening. Following intensive interrogation, Kanhekar confessed that, fearing competition over inheritance and desperate to secure property rights for his own biological children, he strangled Darshan in a nearby forest, concealed his body in a sack, and abandoned it near the Shahnur Wildlife Sanctuary, close to Melghat Tiger Reserve hindustantimes.com+3indianexpress.com+3timesofindia.indiatimes.com+3.

Investigation and Forensic Evidence

Led by Assistant SP Anmol Mittal, a team of 60 officers scoured the forested terrain overnight. They located Darshan’s body near Chichona village within hours, confirming strangulation as the cause of death timesofindia.indiatimes.com+3hindustantimes.com+3lokmattimes.com+3.

Kanhekar misled investigators regarding the body’s location, delaying the crucial recovery. Both suspects were remanded in custody, with authorities aiming to submit a comprehensive chargesheet under sections of the Indian Penal Code and Juvenile Justice Act within the next 48 hours lokmattimes.com+3indianexpress.com+3timesofindia.indiatimes.com+3.

Profile of the Accused

Kanhekar, aged 35, had married Darshan's mother following the death of her first husband. He reportedly feared the child—a survivor from her previous marriage—might undermine his own inheritance claims, especially as his wife was pregnant with their third biological child. Gaigole was allegedly paid ₹300 for assisting with the act indianexpress.com+1timesofindia.indiatimes.com+1.

Social and Legal Implications

This incident exposes the darker side of inheritance disputes and stepfamily tensions. While India’s legal framework stipulates equal rights for all heirs regardless of birth—especially in agricultural states such as Maharashtra—cultural stigma and legal illiteracy can distort perceptions, leading to tragic outcomes.

Legal experts emphasize the need for:

• Public education on property rights

• Family counseling in blended households

• Swift judicial action to prevent similar tragedies

Maharashtra’s Justice V. Ganesh outlined in a recent decision that all children, including stepchildren and adopted children, are equally entitled to parental estate shares under the Maharashtra Succession Act.

Community Reaction and Police Response

Local residents in Akot call the case "unprecedented" and "heart-wrenching." Protesters have demanded criminal prosecution and a re-examination of local awareness programs on inheritance laws.

Meanwhile, DSP Archit Chandak and the Akola SDPO assured the public of full cooperation and swift justice, affirming the investigation is following standard protocols for homicide involving minors.

What Happens Next

• Police investigation will focus on forensic linkage and possible accomplices.

• Court proceedings including remand hearings and charge framing are anticipated before July 10.

• Child welfare services are working on a support plan for Darshan’s surviving sibling and mother.

Law enforcement officials urge families to consult legal advisors when dealing with inheritance matters and to consider mediation to diffuse continuities before they escalate.

Conclusion

The tragic death of young Darshan has cast a sad spotlight on inheritance disputes and the vulnerability of children in stepfamilies. Beyond criminal charges, this case underscores a broader societal need: ensuring legal clarity, emotional support, and protective frameworks for children—regardless of family structure.