70-Year-Old Farmer Set Ablaze in Tamil Nadu; Four Arrested, AIADMK Criticises Law and Order

A 70-year-old farmer in Tamil Nadu was allegedly set ablaze over a personal dispute, prompting outrage and raising concerns about law and order in the state.

Four people have been arrested in connection with the attack, and the victim, identified as Rajendran, is receiving treatment in hospital. The incident occurred around 6:50 pm on Thursday in the village of Kadampuliyur. Rajendran was travelling as a pillion on a two-wheeler when two men reportedly intercepted him, poured petrol, and set him on fire. Passersby alerted authorities, and the victim was initially taken to Cuddalore District Hospital before being shifted to Kilpauk Medical College Hospital in Chennai for further care, officials said.

Police stated that the attack stemmed from a personal enmity. A senior police official told PTI that four special teams have been formed to investigate the case, and all four accused—including the two men who allegedly poured petrol—have been arrested. “They will be sent to Cuddalore Prison soon,” the official added.

The attack drew criticism from AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, who slammed the DMK government over the state’s law and order situation. On X, he wrote that the people of Tamil Nadu “have been pushed into a state where they must live each day in fear, wondering, ‘What further atrocities are yet to come?’”

Palaniswami added that the incident reflects not only on the safety of citizens but also on the state’s law enforcement and security apparatus. He urged the government to conduct a transparent investigation and ensure high-quality medical care for the farmer.