A tragic accident in Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district claimed the life of a 93-year-old milkman, who was run over by a vehicle from an Assam Rifles convoy on Monday. The victim, identified as Jonga Bahadur, was crossing the road on his bicycle when he was struck by a military vehicle, leading to fatal injuries.
The accident has raised concerns over road safety and military convoys, with authorities now investigating the incident.
Details of the Fatal Incident
When and Where Did It Happen?
According to police reports, the accident occurred around 10:30 AM in Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya. Bahadur was on his daily routine, cycling across the road while carrying a container of milk. At the same time, an Assam Rifles convoy was passing through the area, heading towards Guwahati.
How Did the Accident Occur?
Eyewitness accounts suggest that Bahadur had already begun crossing the road when he was struck by the third vehicle in the convoy. The impact was severe, leaving the elderly man with critical injuries.
Immediate Response and Medical Treatment
Upon receiving information about the accident, the Meghalaya Police and local authorities rushed to the scene.
- Bahadur was immediately transported to the Civil Hospital in Nongpoh for emergency treatment.
- However, due to the serious nature of his injuries, doctors referred him to North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) in Shillong.
- Despite medical efforts, Bahadur succumbed to his injuries.
Official Response to the Incident
Police Statement on the Accident
Superintendent of Police Vivekanand Singh confirmed the accident, stating that: “The elderly man was crossing the road on his bicycle when he was hit by one of the convoy vehicles. Due to the impact, he sustained critical injuries and was rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately, he did not survive.”
Assam Rifles Yet to Issue a Statement
As of now, Assam Rifles authorities have not commented on the incident. It remains unclear whether any internal inquiry has been initiated regarding the accident. This lack of response has led to public outcry, with many questioning the safety measures followed by military convoys in civilian areas.
Concerns Over Road Safety and Military Convoys
This incident has once again sparked discussions about the movement of military convoys through civilian areas and the safety risks involved.
Key Concerns Raised:
- Lack of Proper Traffic Management During Convoy Movements
- Many civilians remain unaware of approaching military convoys, increasing accident risks.
- Absence of Safety Protocols for Pedestrians
- In areas where military vehicles frequently pass, pedestrian crossings and warning signs are often lacking.
- Need for Stricter Regulations on Convoy Speed Limits
- Military vehicles moving at high speeds through populated areas can pose a serious safety hazard.
Demands for Action
Following Bahadur’s tragic death, local residents and activists are urging:
1) Stricter convoy movement protocols to prevent such accidents.
2) Compensation for the victim’s family as a gesture of responsibility.
3) A transparent inquiry into the accident to determine accountability.
Legal and Ethical Implications
While military convoys are often given the right of way, road safety laws apply to all vehicles, including those operated by the armed forces.
- According to Indian traffic laws, in cases of fatal accidents, the driver responsible can face legal consequences.
- If the Assam Rifles vehicle was at fault, a detailed investigation could lead to compensation claims for Bahadur’s family.
So far, authorities have not confirmed whether legal action will be taken.
The death of 93-year-old Jonga Bahadur after being hit by an Assam Rifles convoy vehicle in Meghalaya is a heartbreaking incident that raises serious road safety concerns.
While police investigations are ongoing, the incident highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations regarding military convoys in civilian zones.
