Maharashtra: Minor girl sets self ablaze to escape gangrape

Mumbai, Saturday: In a shocking incident in Pune, a 16-year-old girl had to make stiff resistance against a group of men by attempting self immolation, to save her from a gangrape.

According to the reports, the incident happened on Wednesday, April 1 at Yavat village of Daund Taluk.

The girl who suffered severe burn injuries is still in a critical condition.

Police have nabbed seven accused, Pramod Thorat, Mahesh Rupanvar, Sagara Mote, Shankar Mote, Somnath Rupanvar, Santosh Rupanvar and Sachin Bandalkar.

According to the Rajendra Patil, senior inspector of Yavat police station, what triggered the incident was a dispute between the victim's mother and Pramod Thorat over construction of a concrete pole in front of their residence.

The disputed land that belongs to government had witnessed several encroachments by the villagers.

Thorat who tried to fence the area outside the house was questioned by the girl's mother.

A furious Thorat also abused the woman. He and his accomplices soon assaulted the woman. She was pushed to the ground and the men kicked and punched her.

The girl who witnessed the attack rushed to save her mother. However, Thorat and another man, Somnath Rupanvar, allegedly assaulted the 16-year-old and dragged her into the house.

She fought back and escaped from the duo who approached to harass her.

The girl then took hold of a kerosene canister and cautioned them again from even trying to grab her. After realising that there was no way out, the girl poured kerosene upon her and set ablaze.

Watching the shocking scene, the attackers fled the spot.The injured mother rushed in and doused the fire.

The victim is under treatment at a private hospital in Pune.

Meanwhile, the police had registered a case against the criminals under various sections.

OneIndia News