R. Manikandan, the taxi driver who immolated himself on the Rajiv Gandhi Salai on Wednesday after he was reportedly humiliated by traffic police personnel, succumbed to burns at the Government Kilpauk Medical College Hospital on Friday.
Manikandan was not wearing his uniform and seat belt. Traffic police personnel fined him.
A scuffle ensued between him and police personnel as he started to shoot a video of the policemen in action. Manikandan was allegedly abused and beaten by police. He returned to the spot after two hours and set himself on fire.
With 59% burns, Manikandan was undergoing treatment in the ICU ward. He was declared dead on Friday. His family members and call taxi drivers assembled on the hospital premises and demanded action against traffic police personnel.
They wanted police to book a criminal case against the police personnel. They also sought the government to order suitable compensation to the bereaved family in addition to granting a government job for the kin. Later in the evening, they received the body.
SI suspended
Meanwhile, Reserve Sub Inspector Thamarai Selvam, who was allegedly involved in the incident, has been placed under suspension, according to sources.
People in need of counselling can contact the State Health Department’s round-the-clock helpline – 104.
Chennai-based Sneha suicide prevention centre can be contacted at 044-24640050
