Silchar New Year’s Eve Death: Police Suspect Drunk Driving or Homicide, Magistrate Inquest Initiated

A magistrate-level inquest has been initiated in the case of Arjun Das, aka Shuna, who died on the fateful morning of the New Year in Tarapur’s E&D Colony Bazar, Silchar. What looked like an accident at first, now does not appear to be a simple accident. Authorities are now examining the case from multiple angles, including drunk driving and possible homicide.

According to updates received from SSP Cachar, Partha Pratim Das, initial findings indicate that the deceased may have been under the influence of alcohol. Police officials stated that there were no visible scratch marks or external wounds on the body, nor on the bike. The victim was also reportedly not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

Police said that preliminary checks conducted at the scene around 3 AM did not reveal anything conclusive. Due to the unusual nature of the case, a special case inquest has been ordered. A magistrate-level inquest will also be conducted to ensure a detailed and independent examination.

The SSP informed that the case is being treated seriously and that it has been taken up suo motu by the authorities. Officials have ruled out the possibility of a straightforward accident at this stage, stating that further clarity will only emerge after forensic examination.

A post-mortem examination has been conducted, and the report is expected tomorrow. Police said the final cause of death will be determined based on the post-mortem findings and other evidence collected during the investigation.

Earlier, Arjun Das’s body was discovered on New Year’s Day (January 1, 2026) after traffic officials recovered a Honda Unicorn motorcycle that had been lying in the drain since the previous night. The bike had fallen into a drain covered with wild foliage, plastic waste and garbage, which may have obstructed visibility during the night.

The incident has raised concerns and questions among locals, especially regarding the delay in the recovery of the motorcycle and the discovery of the body. Police have assured that all aspects of the case will be examined thoroughly.

Further updates are awaited as the investigation continues.