Man seeking compensation from GSPC immolates self in protest

A 45-year-old man allegedly committed suicide by setting himself on fire over the issue of compensation for the damage caused to his house while laying a gas pipeline at Chuda village in Surendranagar district today, police said.
Pankaj Dave set himself on fire near his house as part of a protest against the Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC) over compensation, they said.
Limdi DySP G G Jasani said Dave was rushed to Ahmedabad civil hospital, but succumbed to his injuries in the evening.
"His brother told us that Dave has been demanding compensation from GSPC after his house sustained damage due to digging work for pipeline near his house. When his demand was not met, Dave set himself ablaze near his house as part of his protest. Due to severe burn injuries, he died at civil hospital," said Jasani.

After learning about the incident, Limdi Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Amit Arora rushed to the spot.
"When Dave first raised the issue of damage, village panchayat called in GSPC officials and repaired the damage caused in the plinth of his house. Then Dave asked for the compensation for the damage done by GSPC. I am conducting further probe (to know) if that (demand for compensation) led to his suicide," said Arora.
Jasani said police have recorded statements of Dave's relatives and initiated further investigation into the case.