Gwalior man set ablaze in petrol price row; one arrested, two at large
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A 22-year-old petrol vendor, Akash Sengar, was allegedly set on fire by three youths at the Thatipur intersection in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, following a dispute over fuel pricing, police confirmed on Wednesday, 25 June 2025. Sengar is currently undergoing treatment at the Trauma Centre with burns to approximately 34 per cent of his body, while one accused has been arrested and two others remain on the run.
How the Incident Unfolded
Akash Sengar, a resident of Hazira PHE Colony, was selling petrol to commuters near an auto-rickshaw stand at the Thatipur intersection late on Tuesday night, under the jurisdiction of the Thatipur police station. Three youths, arriving on a Bullet motorcycle, allegedly demanded fuel at a price lower than what Sengar was charging.
When Sengar refused, an argument escalated into a physical assault. According to police, the accused allegedly poured petrol over Sengar's body and ignited it with a lighter before attempting to flee the scene. Hearing his screams, local residents rushed to his aid and doused the flames. An ATM guard who intervened during the rescue also sustained minor injuries.
What Police Said
CSP Atul Soni confirmed the incident on Wednesday, stating that Sengar was immediately shifted to the Trauma Centre for treatment. While some local residents claimed Sengar had suffered around 60 per cent burns, police said a medical assessment indicated a lower figure.
'Akash has sustained burns on approximately 34 per cent of his body. He is undergoing treatment, and his condition is being closely monitored. One accused has been arrested, and efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining two,' Soni said.
Case Registered, Accused Identified
Police have registered a case of attempted murder against the primary accused, identified as Dolly Gurjar, along with two unidentified accomplices. CCTV footage from the area is being reviewed to establish the sequence of events and identify the remaining suspects.
What Happens Next
Investigators are combing the locality and examining surveillance footage to trace the two absconding accused. The condition of Akash Sengar continues to be closely monitored at the Trauma Centre. This incident has raised fresh concerns about street-vendor safety in Gwalior, where informal fuel vendors operate in largely unregulated conditions.