Man tries to set himself ablaze near CM Yogi’s house in protest against ‘police apathy

A 30-year-old youth from Barabanki district attempted to set himself on fire near the Chief Minister’s residence in Lucknow on Monday, reportedly to protest against what he claimed was police inaction in a legal case he had filed.

The man, identified as Shivam Kumar Verma, a resident of Ujrawara Purwa village under Fatehpur police station in Barabanki, reached the Vikramaditya Marg trisection, around 150 meters from the CM residence. There, he allegedly poured a flammable liquid on himself and set himself on fire.

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Police personnel stationed nearby, including Sub-Inspector Aditya Singh from Bandariyabagh outpost, acted quickly to extinguish the flames and called for medical assistance.

Shivam was rushed to Civil Hospital in Lucknow, where doctors stated that approximately 35% of his body had sustained burn injuries, primarily on his limbs. He was later referred to the Trauma Centre for further treatment due to the seriousness of his condition.

According to initial police findings, Shivam had filed a case at Fatehpur police station in Barabanki district following a personal dispute. He was in love with a girl but she allegedly cheated him and got engaged to his (Shivam) friend Saurabh Mishra. Shivam subsequently lodged a case against his friend.

Though a chargesheet was submitted in the case, he was reportedly upset that no arrests had been made, which caused him mental distress.

Officials believe Shivam had come to Lucknow hoping to submit a direct complaint to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regarding the matter. However, before he could reach any official, the self-immolation attempt took place.

Authorities have informed Shivam’s family. However, they have not reached the hospital so far. Further investigations are on in the matter.