Rickshaw driver named Thippeswamy got into a sharp conflict with police officers during a routine traffic check. The officers accused him of consuming alcohol, which he denied. He also claimed the officers acted unprofessionally, grabbed him harshly by the shirt, and pushed him.

What followed, however, was something no one expected. Thippeswamy brought a bottle of gasoline, poured it on himself and on part of the road, and then set himself on fire. Despite the immediate reaction of bystanders, he suffered burns on 50-70% of his body. He was rushed to the burn unit of the district hospital, where he is currently fighting for his life.

The incident triggered a strong reaction in the city from other rickshaw drivers. Many spontaneously gathered at the Gandhi Circle intersection, where the incident happened, and began protesting. They claim they have long faced pressure and harassment from the traffic police.

The police released a statement presenting their own version of the event. According to them, Thippeswamy poured gasoline on himself to intimidate the officers. They say the fire started
accidentally and that he never truly intended to set himself on fire.

If Thippeswamy survives his fight for life, he will face several charges: attempted suicide and obstructing public authority during a traffic inspection.