Assam: Two youths killed in midnight road accident at Kakopathar, NH-15 blocked by protesters

Two youths were killed in a late-night road accident at Lajum village in Kakopathar area of Upper Assam, triggering massive protests and a highway blockade that left thousands of vehicles stranded on National Highway-15, April 18.

The deceased have been identified as Pranajit Das, a resident of Kakopathar and a goalkeeper at the Kakopathar Football Coaching Centre, and Shashank Moran of Teji village.

According to eyewitnesses and local sources, the incident occurred late Friday night during ongoing Bihu festivities when a speeding Bolero vehicle allegedly rammed into a stationary motorcycle parked by the roadside. The victims were reportedly sitting on the motorcycle at the time of the collision.

Both youths sustained fatal injuries and died on the spot. Bystanders, along with local residents, rushed them to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared them brought dead.

Police said the Bolero, bearing registration number AS-01 V 0399, was coming from the Kakopathar side when it struck the motorcycle. The driver, suspected to be under the influence of alcohol, has been detained by Doomdooma Police. The vehicle involved in the accident has also been seized.

The incident sparked outrage among local residents, who began a protest early Saturday morning by blocking National Highway-15 near Kakopathar Police Station. Protesters burnt tyres on the road and demanded immediate justice, along with adequate compensation and rehabilitation measures for the families of the deceased.

The blockade has caused severe traffic congestion, with thousands of vehicles stranded on both sides of the highway, disrupting movement in the region.

Local administration officials have been urged to intervene promptly to address the grievances of the protesters and ease the traffic situation. Further details are awaited.