Man aggrieved over land dispute sets himself ablaze in front of Bombay High Court

Owing to a long-running dispute relating to compensation for land acquisition in Kankavli, a man set himself on fire outside the Bombay High Court.

The man sustained severe burn injuries although swift intervention by police was received. The incident raises fresh concerns over grievances linked to land acquisition and legal disputes.

Notably, the incident took place at around 2.30 pm near gate number four of the Bombay High Court complex in Mumbai. The man, identified as Prakash Sawant, aged around 50 years and a resident of Virar, poured kerosene over himself and set himself alight in public view.

As per reports, Sawant was immediately shifted by ambulance to GT Hospital, located close to the High Court. Doctors said he had suffered around 50 to 60 percent burn injuries and remains in a critical condition.

Sawant also alleged that an advocate had failed to return money paid to her in connection with his case. A pamphlet was also recovered from him containing details of multiple complaints he had filed against the Kankavli tehsildar. The pamphlet also referred to a complaint lodged in 2021 with the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa against the advocate. According to Sawant’s claims, the Bar Council had directed the lawyer to return his money, but as per him that the order had not been fully complied with.

Furthermore, Sawant also claimed to have approached several authorities, including the Prime Minister’s Office and state agencies, without receiving relief.