WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT
An India farmer burned himself to death today during a rally in protest over land ownership.
Prabin Boro, 45, doused himself in petrol and set himself alight in Assam, Indian, after the state government decided not to give land deeds to the people who live on hills in nearby Guwahati.
He was taken to Gauhati Medical College Hospital suffering 100 per cent burn to his body, and was pronounced dead a short time later.
Prabin Boro, 45, burned himself to death today during a protest over land ownership in India
The farmer and activist set himself alight in front of horrified onlookers before officials poured water on him
Boro apparently confessed his plans to his wife beforehand saying it was for the public good
His wife, Purnima, said Boro confessed that he was going to die for the public good, despite her begging him not to.
Speaking to the Indian Express, she said: 'This morning when he set out to participate in the rally, my husband told me that he will die today at any cost for the interest of the public.
'I told him not to go as who would look after our three children if he died. But my husband said he has to die in the greater interest of the people to get their land deeds.'
The state government of Assam had recently decided not to give land permits to people living in the hills around Guwahati
Boro's wife, Purnima, has now started legal action against two politicians claiming their actions led to his suicide
As news of Boro's action spread, protest sprang up across the state, with up to 60 activists arrested
Purnima has now launched legal action against two politicians, chief minister Tarun Gogoi and revenue minister Prithibi Majhi, claiming their decisions lead to her husband's death.
As news of Boro's death spread protests sprang up across the state.
According to the New India Express, up to 60 activists were arrested as they blockaded the main highway and a set of railway tracks.
State officers had to break up several roadblocks along the main highway, and one which crossed railway tracks
Self-immolation has been surprisingly common across India's history, with up to 800 students lighting themselves on fire between 2012 and 2013 demanding that a new state be established
Following Boro's death the state has said it will provide and income for his wife, who has young children
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