Farmer Sets Himself on Fire in Meerut Over Land Dispute

A 53-year-old farmer in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, attempted self-immolation in protest against the removal of encroachment by the forest department. The incident has sparked outrage and the district magistrate has ordered a magisterial inquiry.

In a shocking incident, a 53-year-old farmer attempted self-immolation in front of the office of the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) in Mawana, Meerut, on Friday. The farmer, identified as Jagbeer, a resident of Alipur Morna village, sustained severe burns and was rushed to the community health centre.

Magisterial Inquiry Ordered

District Magistrate Deepak Meena has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the matter, which is to be completed within two days. Additional District Magistrate Administration Amit Kumar and Superintendent of Police Rural Kamlesh Bahadur will conduct the inquiry and submit their findings in a report within 48 hours.

Reason Behind the Protest

According to officials, the farmer attempted self-immolation while protesting against the removal of encroachment by the forest department along with the revenue department on Thursday. The land in question was cleared of encroachment during a drive undertaken by the forest department, and it was subsequently handed over to the forest department.

Farmer's Allegations

Jagbeer alleged that the forest department had illegally occupied his land. However, Range Officer of the forest department Ravikant Chaudhary refuted these allegations, stating that the farmer had been illegally occupying the land for several years.

Land Cleared of Encroachment

Chaudhary clarified that the land was cleared of encroachment as part of a routine drive by the forest department. He added that the land has been freed and taken back by the forest department.

The incident has raised concerns about the ongoing land disputes in the region. The magisterial inquiry ordered by the district magistrate is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the farmer's self-immolation attempt and determine the appropriate course of action.