Ex-panchayat chief burnt alive over money dispute

According to sources, Kunju Mohammed (65) of Mettupalayam had lent Muruganantham Rs 4 lakh after the latter promised to help him set up a timber depot. However, he did not keep up the promise and also failed to return the money..

On Tuesday, Mohammed was asked to come to Avudaipoigai village to settle the dispute. But a quarrel erupted between them. Mohammed was already angry that his repeated pleas failed to convince Muruganantham into repaying the money, and had carried a bottle of petrol.

While they were travelling on a bike, Mohammed who was riding pillion, poured petrol on Muruganantham, who stopped the vehicle and ran. But Mohammed chased him and set him afire. The victim was rushed to Karaikudi Government Hospital and was later referred to Sivaganga Government Medical College Hospital, but could not be saved. Kundrakudi police have filed a case and arrested Mohammed, sources said.