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 from his land by the forest and revenue departments. The farmer, identified as Jagbeer, sustained 70% burns and is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Meerut. District Magistrate Deepak Meena has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the matter to be completed within 48 hours.

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

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.

Farmer Alleges Wrongful Removal from Land

According to Jagbeer, he was wrongly removed from a piece of land by the forest department during an encroachment removal drive. He attempted self-immolation as a form of protest against this action.

Forest Department Refutes Allegations

Range Officer of the forest department Ravikant Chaudhary refuted the farmer's allegations, stating that Jagbeer had been illegally occupying the land for several years. The land was cleared of encroachment as part of a routine drive undertaken by the forest department.

Political Reaction

The incident has drawn criticism from former chief minister and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav. Yadav condemned the BJP government in the state, stating that it has been targeting farmers' land and produce since coming to power.

The self-immolation attempt by the farmer highlights the ongoing issue of land disputes and the plight of farmers in India. The magisterial inquiry ordered by the district magistrate is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure appropriate action is taken.