A tense situation unfolded outside the Bombay High Court on Monday evening after a man allegedly attempted to take his own life by setting himself on fire, police said.
The man has been identified as Prakash Sawant, a resident of Kankavali in Sindhudurg district. The incident occurred near the court premises, drawing immediate attention from police personnel and pedestrians in the area.
Swift intervention saves life
Police officials said alert police staff and bystanders acted quickly, managing to douse the flames before the situation worsened. Sawant was immediately rushed to a state-run hospital in south Mumbai for medical treatment.
Doctors said he sustained around 50 per cent burn injuries and is currently undergoing treatment. His condition is being closely monitored.
Dispute with lawyer cited as reason
Preliminary investigations suggest that the incident may have been triggered by a dispute between Sawant and a lawyer over the filing of a case in the High Court.
According to police, Sawant had allegedly paid ₹80,000 to the lawyer to file a case. However, the case was not filed, leading to frustration and distress. Police said this issue appears to have played a role in the extreme step taken by the man, though investigations are still under way.
Police probe under way
The Azad Maidan Police have registered a case and are investigating the matter. Officials said they are recording statements from witnesses and examining financial and communication records related to the alleged dispute.
Police have also indicated that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
Authorities urge people to seek help
Senior officials stressed that disputes and grievances should be addressed through legal and institutional mechanisms rather than extreme actions. They urged people facing emotional or financial distress to seek help from family, counsellors or appropriate authorities.
The incident once again highlights the mental and emotional toll legal and financial disputes can take on individuals.