Onlookers came to the rescue of the children after their father set them ablaze outside the Collector's office in Tirunelveli.

A daily wage labourer today set his wife and two daughters on fire outside the Collector's office in Tirunelveli.

Isakimuthu and his wife Subbulakshmi were allegedly being harassed by a money lender even after they paid the dues. Subbulakshmi had borrowed Rs 1.45 lakh from Muthulakshmi eight months ago, which she claims to have repaid.

Subbulakshmi had paid around Rs 2.35 lakh including interest, however, the money lender was demanding more money in form of interest. According to Isakimuthu's brother, they filed a complaint with the police but no action was taken.

Disappointed with the continuous harassment and inaction by the police, Isakimuthu (28) took his wife (25) and daughters, aged 5 and 2, to Tirunelveli on the pretext of meeting the Collector over a solution on the issue.

He then poured petrol on them and set them ablaze before attempting self immolation.

Onlookers immediately came to the rescue of the family and poured water on them. Police officials then rushed the four to the nearest hospital.

"It took me almost 20 minutes to realise what I was witnessing. I don't think the children will survive," said an eyewitness.

"The problem was with loan sharks. The police were taking the money lender's side. Isakimuthu couldn't do anything. When he tried seeking help from the Collector, he was directed to the SP's office and then back to the police station, which was hand in gloves with the loan sharks. There was no other way out, which is why Isakimuthu must have done this," said his brother.