A devastating road accident in Silchar claimed the lives of two young schoolchildren on Thursday afternoon, triggering massive public outrage and the blockade of a crucial national highway connecting Assam and Manipur.
Horrific Collision at Lalpani
The tragedy unfolded at Lalpani in Cachar district when an oil tanker allegedly rammed into a scooter from behind. The scooter was carrying two young cousins returning home from school along with their mother.
The victims were identified as four-year-old Sanatamba Mian, a KG-I student, and three-year-old Abdul Samad, who attended nursery class. Both children died instantly at the scene from the impact of the collision.
The woman riding the scooter, Sultana Begam, who is Samad's mother, sustained injuries in the accident. She was immediately rushed to Jirighat primary health centre for treatment. Medical officials confirmed that she was admitted and her condition was reported to be out of danger.
Driver Flees, Then Arrested
According to police reports, the tanker driver immediately fled the scene after the horrific accident, abandoning his vehicle and the victims. Law enforcement officials launched a search operation and successfully arrested the driver later.
The accused was taken to Jirighat police station for interrogation as authorities began their investigation into the circumstances that led to the fatal collision.
Police transported the bodies of the young children to the Jirighat primary health centre, where doctors formally declared them brought dead. The community was left in shock and mourning over the sudden loss of two innocent lives.
Public Outrage and Highway Blockade
The tragic incident sparked immediate and intense public anger, with enraged villagers blocking NH-37 between Silchar and Imphal for several hours. The protestors demanded immediate action to regulate heavy vehicles on the route and stricter enforcement of speed limits, particularly during school hours when children are traveling.
As tensions escalated, several passing vehicles were allegedly vandalised by angry protestors. Police intervention became necessary to prevent further disorder and restore calm to the area.
The blockade of this strategically important highway disrupted traffic movement between Assam and Manipur, highlighting the depth of public frustration over recurring road accidents and safety concerns in the region.
Local residents emphasized the urgent need for better traffic management and safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future, especially involving schoolchildren and vulnerable road users.
