Man electrocuted by live 11 kV wire in Assam's Ledo; protests erupt over alleged Coal India negligence

A 42-year-old man died after coming into contact with a live 11 kV power line in Ledo area of Assam’s Tinsukia district, triggering widespread outrage and protests against alleged negligence by authorities.

The incident took place at Pirulaine in Ledo No. 2 Road village under the Margherita Legislative Assembly constituency. The deceased has been identified as Saidul Ali.

According to local residents, Ali noticed a live power line, reportedly belonging to the North Eastern Coalfields (NEC) under Coal India Limited, lying on the verandah of his house on Monday morning (April 13). While attempting to remove the wire, he was electrocuted and died on the spot.

The tragic incident cast a pall of grief over the area and sparked strong public anger. Soon after, members of the Asom Jatiyotabadi Yuva Chatra Parishad (AJYCP), along with local residents, gheraoed the NEC office in Ledo and staged a protest.

Protesters alleged gross negligence and mismanagement by the electricity department of NEC, Margherita, claiming that the fatal accident occurred due to their failure to maintain safety standards. They raised slogans and demanded accountability from the concerned authorities.

Local organisations and residents have also demanded immediate financial assistance for the victim’s family, along with adequate government compensation.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident.