Amethi (Uttar Pradesh), Oct 30 (IANS): The husband of a Dalit village head was allegedly set ablaze by miscreants due to political rivalry.

He was found in flames on the outskirts of Bandoiya village, late on Thursday night and the local people informed the police. He was taken to the hospital but succumbed to burn injuries on Friday.

The deceased has been identified as Arjun, 50.

The body has been sent for post mortem and additional forces deployed in the village in view of the prevailing tension.

Union minister Smriti Irani has spoken to local police officials and asked for strict action in the matter.

Station officer Mithilesh Singh said that the family had not yet given any complaint but the police was investigating the matter.

His wife, Chotka, who is the village head, said that her husband had gone out for some work and did not return home till late in the night on Thursday.

"We were then informed that he had been set ablaze in a deserted place outside the village. This has been done due to political rivalry," she said.