The family of the late Dr. Syed Rifaat Hussain has publicly accused his younger brother, journalist Syed Talat Hussain, of causing psychological distress to the deceased in his final days and engaging in a defamation campaign following his passing.

In a strongly worded statement released on social media, Dr. Rifaat Hussain’s family rejected Syed Talat Hussain’s public expressions of grief and termed them as “fake news” and “vile social media propaganda.” The family stated that despite claiming deep affection for his brother, Syed Talat refused to attend Dr. Rifaat’s funeral on March 7, 2025, and allegedly prevented other family members from doing so.

The statement further alleged that Syed Talat inflicted “deep psychological pain and mental torture” on Dr. Rifaat while he was in the ICU, pressuring for his premature discharge despite his severe health conditions, which included double pneumonia, organ failure, and critical sugar levels.

Additionally, the family accused Syed Talat of colluding with their eldest brother, Fayyaz Hussain, to issue verbal and written threats against Dr. Rifaat’s wife, Sammia Rifaat, and his three sons, Hamzah Rifaat, Hannan Hussain, and Haider Rifaat. The statement claimed that these threats were intended to intimidate and demonstrate influence over the family.

The late professor’s family asserted that they have documented evidence, including written communications, supporting their allegations. They held Syed Talat Hussain’s actions responsible for contributing to Dr. Rifaat’s sudden demise.

“To honour our father’s legacy, we believe it is our duty to communicate the extent of the psychological pain he endured,” the statement read. The family urged the public to disregard Syed Talat Hussain’s social media posts, calling them an attempt to “cover up” his alleged actions.

The family has also invited those who were prevented from attending the funeral to reach out directly.

Dr. Syed Rifaat Hussain, a renowned scholar and policy analyst, passed away on March 7, 2025, in Islamabad. His family has requested prayers for his maghfirat and expressed their grief over the circumstances surrounding his passing.