Assam's Kakopathar mourns loss of two youths; thousands turn out as accident victims laid to rest

In a deeply emotional scene, thousands of mourners gathered across Kakopathar, including at the town field, Teji village and Kako Tinali colony, to pay their last respects to two young men who lost their lives in a tragic road accident during Bihu celebrations.

 

The bodies of Pranajit Das and Shashank Moran were brought back after postmortem from Tinsukia Medical College and received with solemn tributes. Residents, including women, elderly citizens and youths, lined the roads and gathered at the victims’ homes, many visibly grieving as floral tributes were offered and final rites performed.

 

Local organisations, student bodies and community groups joined in paying homage, remembering Pranajit as a talented goalkeeper of the Kakopathar Football Coaching Centre and Shashank for his active presence in the community. The mortal remains were later taken in a procession for the last rites.

 

Shops across Kakopathar, extending up to Dirak, remained closed as the area observed mourning.

 

The incident has also sparked concern over road safety during festive periods. Following the accident, locals had blocked National Highway 15, demanding action against reckless and drunk driving, compensation for the victims’ families, and improved safety measures.

 

The blockade was later lifted after the administration held discussions with protestors and assured steps to address overspeeding and drunk driving. Police have detained the driver involved and seized the vehicle.

 

Leaders of the All Moran Students’ Union submitted a memorandum seeking Rs 20 lakh compensation for the families, along with demands for better healthcare facilities and improved traffic management in the area.

 

Authorities have appealed for calm while reiterating the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.