KANPUR, Feb. 16 -- Two men tried to immolate themselves at the Kanpur collectorate on Monday, alleging persistent administrative neglect in resolving a long-standing land dispute. The attempt was thwarted by vigilant security personnel, who restrained them after they poured diesel on themselves.

The men, identified as Padam Singh and Moti Singh-resident of Naubasta's Awas Vikas colony and originally from Maitha in Kanpur Dehat-arrived at the premises around 11 am. Eyewitnesses said they suddenly pulled out bottles of fuel and began pouring it over themselves, triggering panic among litigants and officials at the site.

The duo alleged that local strongmen had illegally encroached on their land in Naubasta. Despite submitting repeated pet...