Shocking Vengeance Attack in Cuddalore: Farmer Set Ablaze Over Relationship Dispute
In a horrifying act of retribution that has sent shockwaves through the community, two men brutally attacked a 64-year-old farmer by dousing him with petrol and setting him on fire near Panruti in Cuddalore district on Thursday night, according to police reports. The victim, identified as Rajendiran from Maligampattu village under Kadampuliyur police limits, sustained severe and life-threatening burns on his neck, back, and lower hip, highlighting the extreme violence of the assault.
Details of the Brutal Assault and Immediate Aftermath
The terrifying incident unfolded when three individuals traveling in a van intercepted Rajendiran, who was riding pillion with his friend Kandan. Two assailants exited the vehicle, poured petrol directly onto the elderly farmer, and ignited it, engulfing him in flames. They then chased Kandan away before fleeing the scene in their vehicle. Alert passersby who witnessed the attack quickly came to Rajendiran's aid, rescuing him and rushing him to Panruti Government Hospital for urgent first aid. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was subsequently shifted to Cuddalore Government General Hospital for advanced medical treatment and specialized care.
Swift Police Response and Arrests in the Case
Superintendent of Police S. Jeyakumar personally visited the crime scene with a dedicated team and launched a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Four special teams under the supervision of DSP (Panruti) P. N. Raja meticulously reviewed nearby CCTV footage, which led to the rapid identification and apprehension of the suspects. The prime accused, D. Manikandan (39) from Panruti, was revealed to have been in a relationship with Rajendiran's daughter-in-law, B. Jayapriya (28) from Maligampattu. Also arrested were Manikandan's associate G. Gubendiran (29) from Panruti, van driver M. Parthiban (28) from Chithiraichavadi, and Jayapriya herself. Police successfully seized the van used in the commission of the crime as crucial evidence.
Motive and Broader Implications of the Incident
Initial police investigations have uncovered that Manikandan targeted Rajendiran, perceiving him as an obstacle to continuing his affair with Jayapriya despite the farmer's strong objections. This revelation points to a deeply personal and vengeful motive rooted in domestic and relational conflicts. Further investigations are actively ongoing to uncover any additional motives or potential accomplices involved in this heinous act. The incident has significantly heightened concerns over the rising instances of honour crimes and violent domestic disputes in rural Tamil Nadu, underscoring urgent societal and legal challenges that need to be addressed to prevent such tragedies in the future.
