CPWD’s speeding SUV kills one in Silchar; Protesters set vehicle ablaze in Meherpur

An accident rocks Dashami morning in Silchar. A Scorpio car travelling from Rangirkhari towards Silchar Medical College and Hospital ran over Sushil Das, a driver who was fixing a snag in his truck (AS 01 SC 5973) by sitting beside the tyre in Beltola, Meherpur, near Nightangle Hospital.

The speeding Scorpion with signage of “CPWD Border Fencing Division 1”, was confronted by the locals, and according to them, the driver of the Scorpio identified himself as “Moy ADC Hoi”, which implies “I am an ADC”. The Scorpio’s registration number plate read, “AS 11 EC 2182”.

The driver who was ran over has been identified as 38-year-old Sushil Das, a permanent resident of Silcoorie area and a tenant in local neighbourhood in Meherpur. Upon realising that the Das has died on the spot, the locals got agitated and started vandalising the Scorpio, ultimately setting the SUV ablaze.

A local businessman briefed the media and in his briefing called out on the driver’s rash driving. “The driver collided with two vehicles before running over Sushil Das. It has been ascertained that he was intoxicated to the extent that he was unable to talk properly. Though he identified himself as an ADC it is less likely to be true,” said the eyewitness while briefing the Press.

Cachar’s Senior Superintendent of Police, Numal Mahatta along with other forces rushed to the spot. Fire and Emergency Services deployed an engine. Initially, the firemen were obstructed by the locals as they wanted the Scorpio to be burnt to ashes as an act of vengeance. However, the police officials along with local intelligentsia mediated and brought the situation under control amicably.

“After the accident was reported, we arrived at the spot. Following detailed discussions with the locals, the situation was brought under control. The fire has been doused and the dead body of the victim has been recovered and transported to the hospital,” said SSP Numal Mahatta.

He added, “It is urged that no gets involved in unlawful activities. The accident in an unfortunate incident and we will investigate the matter to uncover further details.”

When asked if an ADC was aboard as alleged, SSP Mahatta asserted that the matter is under investigation and the identities are yet to be determined.