Man tries to set govt office on fire, flees after leaving farm loan waiver posters

A late-night attempt to torch a Public Works Department (PWD) office in Maharashtra's Jalna district has triggered a police investigation after officials recovered diesel-filled bottles and posters demanding complete farm loan waivers from the scene.

The incident took place at the Public Works Department (PWD) Sub-Divisional Office located on the Jafrabad-Chikhli Road in Jafrabad. According to officials, an unidentified person allegedly poured diesel at the main entrance of the office late at night and attempted to set the premises on fire.

Fortunately, the fire did not spread and a major mishap was averted. However, the office's main entrance gate sustained damage during the incident.

Officials said the matter came to light on Saturday morning when employees arrived at the office and noticed signs of attempted arson. Senior authorities were immediately informed, following which police teams rushed to the spot and launched an investigation.

During the inspection, police recovered a bottle containing diesel and two empty water bottles from the premises. Preliminary findings suggest that a diesel-filled bottle was thrown into the office compound but failed to ignite, preventing what could have been a serious fire.

Investigators also found around 30 to 35 posters scattered across the office hall and surrounding area. The posters reportedly carried slogans demanding a complete waiver of farmers' loans and messages critical of the government.

VIDEO SUPPORTING FARM LOAN WAIVERS GOES VIRAL

Adding another dimension to the case, a video related to the incident surfaced on social media shortly after the attempted attack. The video allegedly features slogans supporting farm loan waivers and protesting against government policies.

Police officials said the identity of the person behind the incident has not yet been established. A case is being registered against unknown persons, and efforts are underway to trace the suspect through CCTV footage and other available evidence.

Authorities said all angles, including whether the act was intended as a symbolic protest over agrarian issues, are being examined. The investigation remains ongoing.

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With inputs from Gaurav Vijay Sali