CHENNAI: An elderly couple tried to immolate themselves on the Tiruvallur collectorate’s premises on Monday, alleging that their son took possession of their house, and drove them out five years ago. Even the man’s octogenarian mother joined in the suicide attempt as police didn't act on their complaint.
The couple -- Kumar, 60, and his wife Amlu, 55 -- residents of Kasthuri Bai Avenue, Tiruverkadu, were staying with Amlu’s mother Parijatham, 80. They had two daughters and a son named Gopi.
Five years ago, Gopi took possession of his parents’ house by registering the property in his name without their knowledge or consent. Kumar and Amlu questioned their son when they came to know that he cheated them. However, Gopi verbally abused them and drove them out of the house.
The couple then stayed at Parijatham’s house. Though Amlu lodged a complaint, the Thiruverkadu police didn’t take action against Gopi. Aggrieved, the two petitioned the Tiruvallur collector at least eight times. However, they did not get a proper response from the staff at the collectorate.
Frustrated at the inaction, the couple decided to end their lives. They, along with Parijatham, reached the collectorate with kerosene hidden in a bag. They doused themselves with the kerosene and tried to immolate themselves. However, the police on duty thwarted their attempt.
"The property was bought with our hard-earned savings. Our son has done us an injustice by taking possession of our house and driving us out,” Amlu said.
Collector Alby John assured them to take action in the matter.
