Cadre’s immolation bid foiled at MDMK’s anti-INO rally in Madurai

The functionary was identified as Ravi from Sivakasi. He was present at the public meeting being addressed by MDMK founder and General Secretary Vaiko, who had also organised a protest march towards Cumbum. The meet was nearing its end at 1.15 pm when Ravi suddenly poured kerosene over himself and set himself on fire. The cadre immediately doused the fire and rushed him to a private hospital in Madurai. 

A visibly upset Vaiko, who had witnessed the entire incident, said Ravi was one of the best party functionaries from Sivakasi. The leader also said, “I have seen enough self-immolation in my life and my supporters should not set themselves on fire anymore,” he added. Following his address, he ended the public meeting and began the rally. He also visited Ravi in the hospital later in the day. The doctors said that he had sustained more than 90 percent burns and was fighting for life.