A tragic incident unfolded near the Parliament building in New Delhi on Wednesday when a man attempted to set himself on fire. The Delhi Fire Service (DFS) reported receiving a distress call about the incident near the Railway Bhawan, located opposite the Parliament, at around 3:35 PM. A fire tender was dispatched to the scene immediately.
According to officials, the man, identified as Jitendra from Baghpat in Uttar Pradesh, set himself ablaze in a park near Parliament before running towards the main gate. Security personnel and nearby authorities quickly intervened, extinguishing the flames and rushing him to Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital for urgent medical care.
Jitendra, approximately 30-35 years old, suffered severe burns covering 90% of his body. His condition remains critical, and he is receiving treatment at RML Hospital. Initial reports indicate that he used a petrol-like substance for self-immolation.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) New Delhi, Devesh Mahla, shared that the man appears to have been troubled due to a case filed against him in 2021 in Baghpat. Preliminary findings suggest the act may be linked to personal enmity in his hometown. However, no suicide note was discovered at the scene. The police are continuing their investigation to determine the exact motive behind this act.
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Local authorities, railway police, and bystanders played a critical role in controlling the situation and preventing further harm. Police officials emphasized the need for further investigation into Jitendra's background and circumstances leading to this drastic step.
In a separate event in Patna’s Kankarbagh area, a 25-year-old man preparing for competitive exams allegedly died by suicide. Identified as Sonu Kumar, the young man was found hanging from a ceiling fan in his room. Authorities believe financial stress and academic pressure may have contributed to the incident. This case further underlines the pressing need for mental health awareness and support systems across the country.
Both incidents shed light on the growing challenges related to mental health and social pressures. They also highlight the critical role of timely intervention and community support in preventing such tragedies. Investigations into both cases are ongoing.