A shocking incident was reported from Madhya Pradesh’s Tikamgarh district where a 23-year-old youth allegedly died after setting himself on fire. The incident took place late Tuesday night in Mahendra Mahewa village under Palera police station limits.

The victim was identified as Rajaram Kushwaha. According to police officials and family members, the youth poured petrol on himself near his house and set himself ablaze. Villagers who noticed the fire immediately rushed to the spot and tried to save him. The incident created panic in the village as flames quickly spread around the youth’s body before local residents managed to control the fire.

Villagers Rushed to Spot

Eyewitnesses said people living nearby saw flames rising from an open area close to the victim’s house. Hearing screams and noise, several villagers gathered at the location within minutes. Residents and relatives used blankets and clothes to extinguish the fire. By the time the flames were brought under control, the youth had already suffered severe burn injuries. Family members immediately shifted him to the Palera Health Centre for emergency treatment. Due to his critical condition, doctors later referred him to a hospital in Chhatarpur for advanced medical care. Despite treatment efforts, the youth died during treatment.

Police Started Investigation

After receiving information about the incident, police officials from Palera police station reached the village and began investigation. Police station in-charge Preeti Bhargava said preliminary inquiry suggests that the youth took the extreme step himself. However, officials are investigating all possible angles related to the case. Statements of family members, neighbours, and local residents are being recorded. Police have also inspected the spot where the incident occurred.

Authorities said legal formalities were completed after the death and the body was sent for postmortem examination. Officials added that the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the incident would become clearer after the investigation and medical reports.

Father Reveals Family Concerns

The victim’s father, Kalicharan Kushwaha, said his son had been consuming alcohol continuously for the last three days. According to the family, Rajaram did not have any known dispute or enmity with anyone in the village. His father claimed the incident happened under the influence of alcohol and was not linked to any family or social conflict.

He said family members had repeatedly advised the youth to stop drinking, but he allegedly ignored their requests. The father told police that his son appeared disturbed and intoxicated before taking the extreme step. Family members were unable to understand his behaviour in recent days. Relatives said the family is deeply shocked because the incident happened suddenly and without warning.

Village Residents in Shock

The tragic incident has left the entire Mahendra Mahewa village in shock and grief. Villagers described Rajaram as a young man known to many people in the area. After news of his death spread, local residents gathered outside the family’s house to offer condolences. Many villagers said incidents of alcohol addiction among youth have become a matter of concern in rural areas. Residents stated that excessive alcohol consumption often leads to emotional instability and risky behaviour. Several people in the village also appealed for greater awareness regarding addiction and mental health issues among young individuals.

Rising Concern Over Addiction

Social workers and local residents say the incident highlights the growing problem of alcohol abuse among youth in smaller towns and villages. Experts often warn that prolonged alcohol consumption can affect emotional balance, mental health, and decision-making ability. In many cases, individuals under heavy intoxication take impulsive steps without considering the consequences.

Authorities have repeatedly appealed to families and communities to remain alert towards behavioural changes among young people. Police officials said emotional distress and addiction-related problems should be addressed through counselling, family support, and medical intervention before situations become serious.

Police Appeal Against Rumours

Following the incident, police urged people not to spread rumours or unverified information on social media platforms. Officials stated that the investigation is being conducted according to standard procedure and no conclusion should be drawn before the inquiry is completed. Police also appealed to residents to immediately inform authorities if they notice any person behaving in a self-harmful or emotionally unstable manner. According to officials, timely intervention from family members, neighbours, or local administration can help prevent such tragedies.

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