Drunk man sets family on fire

MUMBAI - A drunk man set his wife, three daughters and niece on fire in Mharal village near Thane district in Maharashtra early Tuesday, a police officer said.

The accused, Tulshiram Pandav, wrapped rags around a long wooden log making it into a torch, which he doused with oil. He used it to set his family on fire while they were asleep. The incident happened around 4.30 a.m,” police inspector Ashok Warelikar said.

The victims suffered more than 80 percent burns and were admitted to Sion Hospital in Mumbai for further treatment.

Pandav, who is absconding, was unemployed and an alcoholic. A month ago he had a fight with his wife and left home for his sister’s place in Mumbai. She cajoled Pandav and convinced him to return to home.

“He had come back just yesterday (Monday). He fought with his wife again last night. He left home, got drunk and returned late. Pandav then set them on fire when they were fast asleep,” said Warelikar.

“Four police teams have been deputed to look for Pandav. We are searching all probable places,” said the police officer.

The victims were Pandav’s wife Ashabai (38), daughters Soni (16), Rani (15) and Kiran (13) and his niece Kavita (12).