A tragic incident unfolded in Madurai on Thursday evening when a 40-year-old man took his own life by setting himself on fire inside a police booth. The deceased, identified as P Poorna Chandran, reportedly carried out the extreme act due to distress over the government not permitting the traditional lighting of the Karthigai deepam at the deepathoon atop the Thiruparankundram hill.
Voice Message Reveals Motive
According to police investigations, Chandran allegedly sent voice messages to a friend, advocate Saravanan, explaining his drastic decision. In the messages, which later circulated on social media, he stated his initial plan was to end his life at the Thiruparankundram temple itself. However, he changed the location, fearing his act would affect the sanctity of the religious site. He specifically cited the prohibition on lighting the lamp, enforced as per a Madras High Court order, as the reason for his despair.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred around 3:45 PM near an outpost behind a Periyar statue beneath the Natham flyover. Chandran, who worked as a medical representative and also sold fruits and vegetables using his mini auto, arrived at the spot in his vehicle. He entered the police booth, locked it from inside, and immolated himself. Upon receiving information, fire brigade personnel and police rushed to the scene, extinguished the flames, and recovered the body.
The remains were sent to the Government Rajaji Hospital for a postmortem examination. A forensic team was also deployed to collect evidence from the site. Chandran was a resident of Marudhupandian Nagar in Narimedu and is survived by his wife, Indhumathi, and two young sons aged four and eight.
Family Unaware, Police Case Registered
In a heartbreaking detail, senior police officials revealed that Chandran's family had no prior indication of his intentions. Preliminary inquiries suggest he was not associated with any organizations, and his family was unaware of the specific reasons behind his extreme step. Based on a formal complaint lodged by his wife, the Tallakulam police have registered a case under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS).
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the deep emotional and religious significance attached to the Karthigai Deepam festival for devotees.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek help. Assistance is available on Tamil Nadu's health helpline 104 and Sneha's suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050.
