Kochi | A man sustained severe burn injuries after he was allegedly doused with petrol and set ablaze by his friend following a dispute at Piravom near here on Thursday, police said.

The injured, Arun, a native of Kakkad near Piravom, is undergoing treatment at Kottayam Medical College Hospital and his condition is critical, they said.

The accused, Jishnu, a native of Piravom, also suffered burn injuries in the incident and is undergoing treatment at the same hospital. His injuries are not serious, police said.

According to police, the incident occurred around 12.30 am on the Snehabhavan Road in Kakkad.

Jishnu, who had recently returned from abroad, allegedly poured petrol he had brought with him over Arun and set him on fire.

The two are friends and had a minor verbal altercation and dispute a few days ago, police said.

The attack is suspected to have taken place as a continuation of the dispute.

Two of Jishnu's friends were also present at the scene, and they too suffered injuries, police said.

Piravom police are questioning two who were present at the scene to ascertain further details, they added.