Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Feb 23: A major tragedy was averted on Sunday evening, after a man attempted to set himself on fire at the busy Kalsanka Circle in Udupi. The swift action of personnel from the city police station and social worker Nithyananda Volakadu saved the man from a life-threatening situation.

The unidentified man arrived at the spot carrying petrol in a bottle and created panic among motorists and pedestrians by threatening to immolate himself. It remains unclear whether he was under the influence of alcohol or suffering from mental health issues.

The incident occurred amid heavy vehicular traffic, and the man’s actions disrupted traffic regulation duties being carried out by traffic police personnel at the junction. Police intervened multiple times and managed to snatch away the petrol bottle from him. However, the man reportedly returned with another bottle filled with petrol and poured it over himself, shouting that he would set himself ablaze.

Displaying presence of mind and promptness, the police personnel successfully prevented the man from igniting himself, thereby averting a possible tragedy in the crowded area.

The police later took the man into custody, counselled him, and made arrangements to send him to his native place, Gadag.

Sub-inspectors Narayan and Gangappa of the city police station were part of the operation that ensured the situation was brought under control without any injuries.