In a shocking incident from Madurai, a 14-year-old girl is battling for life after a stalker doused her in kerosene and set her on fire, allegedly over a rejected proposal.
The incident took place in Nadukottai in Thirumangalam region on Friday. Ramya*, a class nine student, was returning home from school with her mother when 20-year-old Balamurugan set her on fire. He reportedly lived in the same neighbourhood as Ramya.
Witnessing the incident, bystanders tried to douse the fire and rushed her to the Thirumangalam Government Hospital immediately. She has suffered 60% burns and is fighting for her life in the hospital.
After setting Ramya on fire, Balamurugan ran away from the area. An investigating official told TNM, “The man lived close to the girl’s house. He was in love with her and she rejected his proposal. Following this, he attacked her. He is currently absconding. Efforts are on to find him.”
In a shockingly similar incident less than a month ago in Vellore, a 17-year-old boy stabbed a 17-year-old girl in broad daylight for rejecting his advances. On her way back home from college, John* stopped Meriam*, a first-year Business Administration student at a private college, and demanded she reciprocate his feelings.
When she refused, an argument ensued. John suddenly wielded a knife and stabbed Meriam on her thighs and ears. Meriam was admitted to hospital with severe stab wounds.
*Names changed.