In a horrifying incident in Ahmedabad’s Odhav area, a man was set on fire while he was asleep in his rented room, leading to his tragic death. Two others, including the deceased’s nephew, suffered severe burn injuries. The police have launched an investigation to nab the suspect.  

The victim, identified as 45-year-old Shravandan Vajedan Charan, was staying in a rented accommodation on the top floor of Jai Shakti Colony, Mahavir Bagh Society, with his nephew Shatidan Charan and another relative, Sarjidan Charan. 

Shravandan, who had been living in Ahmedabad for over a decade, worked as an AC, fridge, and washing machine repair technician. Shatidan, who had recently moved from Barmer, Rajasthan, was learning the trade from his uncle.  

The Incident  

According to the FIR, the three men had returned to their room late on the night of February 27 after a day of work. Around 3.30 am on February 28, Shravandan suddenly screamed in pain, waking up Shatidan and Sarjidan. They found themselves engulfed in flames, with their clothes and bodies burning.  

Shatidan suffered burns on his right wrist, elbow, and back, while Sarjidan’s legs were severely injured. Shravandan, who had suffered the worst burns, ran outside the room and pleaded for water. His nephew immediately poured a bucket of water over him before alerting the landlord and neighbours.  

The building owner's son, Sunny, called for an ambulance, and Shravandan was rushed to LG Hospital. Given the severity of his injuries, he was later transferred to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and subsequently to Zydus Hospital for further treatment. As his condition deteriorated, family members decided to shift him to AIIMS Jodhpur, but he succumbed to his injuries en route around 3.30 pm near Tharad in Banaskantha district.  

Suspect identified  

The complaint filed by Shatidan alleges that their neighbour Chandubhai Rawal, who lived in the same building, was responsible for the attack. Shatidan claimed that Rawal "quickly poured a liquid" over them while they were sleeping and set them on fire. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and the police are investigating the circumstances leading to the incident.  

Investigation underway  

The Odhav police have registered a case in the matter and are questioning Rawal and other residents of the building. Forensic experts have been called in to examine the crime scene, and CCTV footage from the area is being analysed. Meanwhile, Shravandan’s body has been sent to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital for post-mortem. His grieving family members have demanded strict action against the accused.