A man tried to immolate himself by dousing kerosene on him in front of Collector’s office in Bargarh district on Monday.
Chabilal Sahu, a native of Bada Sahajbahal village under Gaisilet block in the district, tried to take the drastic step after being upset over alleged inaction of the district administration against massive irregularities in various government schemes.
Sahu, along with 10 other villagers, held protest in front of the Collector’s office earlier today alleging massive irregularities in the implementation of various government schemes in Jagalpat Panchayat under Gaisilet Block.
During the protest, Sahu tried to empty a bottle of kerosene on him and set himself on fire. However, the police personnel present there acted promptly and managed to snatch away the kerosene bottle from him.
Speaking about the incident, additional Collector Mirdha Tappo assured that an investigation will be conducted and stringent action will be taken against those involved in corruption.
“The project director (PD) of the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) is aware of the complaints of the villagers and is looking into the matter. If the irregularities come to fore during investigation, the project director will take action accordingly,” said Tappo.