A serious incident involving a farmer suffering burn injuries in Anand district took a dramatic turn over the weekend, with police investigation challenging the victim's initial account of a violent attack.
From Alleged Assault to Self-Harm Claims
The incident occurred on Saturday evening in Ambav village, located in the Anklav taluka of Anand district. Bharat Padhiyar, a 51-year-old resident, sustained severe burns. Initially, from his hospital bed at Vadodara's SSG Hospital, he filed a formal complaint alleging a brutal assault.
In his complaint, Padhiyar named the village sarpanch, Kokila Padhiyar, her husband Dinesh, their son Popat, and two others. He accused them of assaulting him, pouring petrol on him, and trying to burn him alive. He claimed the motive was retaliation for his complaints to various authorities, including the Chief Minister, about alleged corruption involving the sarpanch.
Police Investigation Uncovers Contradictory Evidence
Acting on his complaint, the Anklav police registered an offence under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) on Sunday. However, the subsequent probe led by Police Inspector P J Batwa painted a different picture.
The police collected CCTV footage, video recordings, and statements from independent witnesses. Based on this evidence, the investigation concluded there was no attempt by the accused persons to set the complainant on fire.
"The evidence indicates that the complainant himself poured a flammable substance and attempted self-immolation," Inspector Batwa stated. He added that a detailed report would be submitted as the investigation progresses.
Rescue Efforts and Current Condition
During the incident, Padhiyar's son, Keval, bravely tried to rescue his father and also suffered burn injuries in the process. Alert local residents rushed both men to the hospital for urgent medical care.
Bharat Padhiyar is currently undergoing treatment for approximately 35-40% burn injuries. Medical sources at SSG Hospital in Vadodara have confirmed that his condition is serious but he is now out of immediate danger.
The case remains under active investigation as authorities work to fully understand the circumstances that led to this distressing event in Ambav village.
