Sri Vijaya Puram: Tension gripped Rangat after a late-night fire incident triggered widespread suspicion of arson and led to protests demanding a transparent investigation. The blaze, which broke out late in the night, caused damage to property and sparked outrage among residents.
According to police sources, a local resident has been identified as a suspect based on circumstantial evidence and has been taken in for questioning. Authorities are probing whether the fire was accidental or deliberate. “We are examining all angles, including the possibility of arson,” a senior police official said, adding that evidence collection is still underway.
The unrest escalated the following morning when residents blocked traffic for several hours, accusing the police of inaction and reluctance to treat the incident as arson. The blockade saw large public participation and reflected growing frustration over the handling of the case.
Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray visited the site and interacted with protestors, assuring them that he would raise the issue with higher authorities to ensure a fair and comprehensive probe. His intervention helped calm the situation, with the crowd dispersing peacefully after receiving assurances from both the police and the MP.
Forensic teams are expected to visit the site to gather further evidence. As of now, no formal arrests have been made, but officials indicated that the suspect could be arrested later in the day depending on the outcome of the inquiry.
Authorities have deployed additional police personnel in the area to maintain law and order as the investigation continues.
