Timely intervention by a few journalists thwarted an immolation bid at the Coimbatore Collectorate.
A tragedy was averted when a journalist managed to snatch the matchbox from a 48-year-old man from Cheran Ma Nagar, who had doused himself, his 38-year-old wife and two daughters aged 14 and 11 with petrol. The incident occurred around 10.30 a.m. near the two-wheeler parking area. The man brought petrol in a five-litre container and poured it on himself and his family members. After the immolation bid was foiled, the quartet was taken to the Race Course police station for counselling. The man and his wife told the police that they took the extreme step as they were being tortured by a neighbour, reportedly a policeman. The man, working as a salesman, owns a dozen goats. He told the police that his neighbour intimidated him on finding the goats feeding on his plants, and even sent two people to threaten him.
Meanwhile, a 26-year-old man from Narayanasamy Layout died of burns after immolating himself in front of the house of the girl whom he was reportedly in love with.
(Those in distress or having suicidal tendencies can seek help and counselling by dialling Sneha's 24x7 helpline 044-24640050.)