Man attempts suicide at Collectorate

Following a series of suicide attempts at the District Collectorate demanding the commutation of death sentence to three convicts in Rajiv Assasination case, a police woman is frisking a blind visitor at the Madurai Collectorate on Monday. Photo: S. James

An attempt to commit self-immolation by three persons led to stepping up of security at the Collector's office here on Monday. Members of Tamil Puligal had conveyed their opposition to the death penalty to the Rajiv killers after the mercy plea was turned down by the President of India.

To show their protest, three members, identified as “Siruthai” Selvam of Karumbalai, Marimuthu and Pandi of Theerthakaadu, had allegedly sneaked into the Collector office in the forenoon under the guise of submitting a petition and suddenly poured kerosene filled in jerry cans and bottles. On information, a police team rushed to the spot and secured them. They were taken to the Tallakulam police station for enquiry.

As the news spread about the self-immolation attempt, the police stepped up their check. People visiting the Collectorate were let in only after thorough frisking. Those carrying drinking water bottles were not allowed which led to commotion.