Akola, Dec 27 (UNI) A man attempted to commit suicide by setting himself on fire at Mahatma Fhule Nagar in Khadan locality of the city due to harassment and extortion demands by police.

Rashtrapal Rajaram Wankhade, who set himself on fire on Monday, received 22 per cent burn injuries. He was admitted in the general hospital, where he went into coma. Rashtrapal regained consciousness yesterday and narrated his woes.

On October 28, Rashtrapal's mother, Ratnaprabha Wankhede had a quarrel with her neighbour over a trivial issue. In relation to this quarrel, police visited Rashtrapal's house twice on December 15 and 23. Instead of looking into the matter, the police started demanding money from Rahtrapal. They also reportedly threatened him with arrest of his parents in case of non-payment of the money demanded.

Unable to pay the money to police officials, Rashtrapal, got fed up of the constant harassment and decided to end his life.

District Superintendent of Police Deepak Pandey has ordered an inquiry into the matter. The report will be submitted by tomorrow.

Police have also registered a case against him under section 309 of the Indian Penal Code for attempting suicide.

UNI