Shopkeeper Attempts Self-Immolation During Varanasi Demolition Drive, One Arrested for Instigation
In a dramatic incident during a municipal demolition drive in Varanasi, a shopkeeper set fire to his own shop, triggering widespread panic and chaos in the Dalmandi area on Monday. Police have arrested one individual for allegedly instigating the act and booked several others, including the shopkeeper, who remains at large.
Demolition Drive Targets Dilapidated Structures
The Varanasi Municipal Corporation launched the demolition operation to raze 21 buildings in Dalmandi that had been declared dilapidated and unsafe. These structures, located in close proximity to other residential and commercial buildings, are part of the ongoing Dalmandi expansion project. Officials stated that prior to the demolition date, repeated announcements were made in the area, and notices were pasted on the buildings, directing occupants to vacate the premises in advance.
Incident Unfolds with Threats and Flames
The situation escalated when the shopkeeper, identified as Azmat, climbed to the first floor of the building. According to police reports, he began pouring petrol on the demolition team and scrap material under a tin shed attached to the building, causing the structure to catch fire rapidly. Azmat reportedly shouted at the demolition team and threatened to set himself on fire, which led to immediate panic and chaos among onlookers and officials.
Security personnel deployed alongside the municipal corporation team acted swiftly to bring the flames under control, preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent properties. Their prompt response helped avert a potential disaster in the densely populated area.
Arrest Made in Connection with "Broader Conspiracy"
During the investigation, police discovered that a local resident, Farooq Khan (60), had allegedly instigated Azmat to execute the act in a planned manner. Khan was accused of repeatedly provoking Azmat as part of what authorities described as a "broader conspiracy." Based on a complaint filed by Sub-Inspector Prakash Singh Chauhan, Khan was arrested and taken into custody.
Varanasi Assistant Commissioner of Police Atul Anjaan Tripathi confirmed that Azmat and several other unidentified persons, who are currently absconding, have been booked on charges of obstructing a public servant in the discharge of official duties and other related offences. Efforts are underway to trace and apprehend the remaining individuals involved in the incident.
Ongoing Investigations and Community Impact
The incident has highlighted the tensions surrounding urban development projects in historic cities like Varanasi. While the demolition drive aims to address safety concerns posed by dilapidated structures, it has also sparked resistance from some residents. Police are continuing their probe to determine the full extent of the conspiracy and ensure that such disruptions do not recur during future municipal operations.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of adhering to legal procedures and have urged residents to cooperate with demolition drives conducted for public safety. The case remains under active investigation as officials work to maintain order and proceed with the redevelopment plans in Dalmandi.
