Tension prevailed in the Sirukulam Tank area as the local people pelted stones at police and revenue officials before police made a lathicharge and brought the situation under control, police said.
Officials said Virudhunagar District Collector T N Hariharan had issued advance notice to the people of the area who had encroached the tank area asking them to vacate in view of a recent Supreme Court order directing removal of the encroachments.
As the people did not respond, the district officials came to the site this morning with earth movers. Over 200 police personnel were deployed to ensure a smooth operation.
After heated exchange with the residents, the officials ordered the encroachments to be demolished when suddenly Ganesh, an auto driver, set himself ablaze, jumped down from the first floor of his house and died.
A couple also attempted to commit self-immolation but police foiled their attempt, police said.
The District Collector said the removal of the encroachment was being temporarily stopped due to the suicide and stiff opposition from the residents, who prostrated before the officials, weeped inconsolably pleading against demolition of their houses.
In Chennai, Chief Minister Jayalalithaa condoled the death of the man and ordered a solatium of Rs one lakh to the deceased's family.
