14-year-old school girl torched by youth near Madurai

In a shocking incident, A 14-year-old school girl on her way home after school was torched by a youth in Achampatti near Tirumangalam, in Madurai, on Friday. 

The incident took place around 4.15 pm when the girl Chitra Devi(14) from Naduvakottai, studying in ninth standard in Government Higher Secondary School, Achampatti was waiting for the bus to Naduvakottai after school.

According to Police, Chitra was waiting for the bus when Balamurugan (23), a mill worker, came on his bike with some petrol, doused her with it and set her afire, and left - leaving behind his bike and some petrol, which was later recovered by Police. 

On seeing Chitra burning, nearby auto drivers poured water on her and then informed Police and 108 ambulance service. Chitra was rushed to  Thirumangalam GH for first aid and then moved to Madurai GRH.  

Chitra sustained 74 percent burn injuries and is battling for her life. After treating her in casualty ward she was rushed to burns ward in the same hosptial, said hospital sources.  

Preliminary investigation found that both Chitra and Balamurugan were relatives, and Balamurugan had been stalked her in the past. On several occasions, Balamurugan had compelled her to accept his love but she had resisted. Even a Police complaint was made at Thirumangalam Taluk Police station but following a written assurance from Balamurugan was given that he will not stalk her anymore, he was let free. 

Tirumangalam Taluk police are investigating the incident and are in search of Balamurugan who is at large.