Retired VAO immolates self on Girivalam path

A case was registered by the Tiruvannamalai East police. Police said Duraikannan (75), a retired VAO and resident of Kothanthavadi village near Tiruvannamalai, was found dead with burn injuries. His body was found near Amman Siddhar Peedam on the Girivalam path.

The police initially investigated the case on suspicions of murder. However, a closer observation of his burnt body revealed that his upper body was covered with ghee. Police suspect that he has used ghee to set himself ablaze.

Police recovered a bag containing some documents, including a letter ad-dressed to the Tiruvannamalai Collector, from the body. According to the police, the victim may have taken the extreme step due to the accusation on him. It is claimed that he was facing allegations of misappropriating trust funds managed by him. However, further investigations are in progress.