Dalit youth Srinivas who set ablaze in front of TRS MLA office for not getting land dies in hospital

Hyderabad: Mahankali Srinivas (27) of Gudem village in Bejjanki Mandal, who was undergoing treatment for burn injuries, succumbed to his injuries, at Secunderabad Yashoda Hospital today.

Srinivas had attempted self-immolation on September 3, along with another person, after Manakonduru MLA Rasamayi Balakishan reportedly spoke to him in a reckless manner. Srinivas poured petrol on his body and set himself on fire in front of the MLA’s office. The MLA, however, denied that he ever spoke in a reckless manner with the beneficiary.

The other Dalit, Y Parushramulu, who also attempted self-immolation, has recovered and is expected to be discharged on Monday, according to hospital sources. It is said that the victims were disappointed as they did not get three acres of land to them as promised by the ruling TRS party during the elections.

Following the death of Srinivas, police have stepped up security at the MLA’s office to face any possible backlash from the relative of the victim and the villagers. (NSS)