Guwahati: Assamese actress Nandini Kashyap was granted bail on Monday, September 8, by the Sessions Judge’s Court in Kamrup district in connection with a road accident that claimed the life of 20-year-old student Samiul Haque on July 25. The court’s decision came with sharp criticism of the police investigation, citing procedural lapses and delays.
The case has sparked public outrage over road safety and the accountability of celebrities involved in high-profile incidents. Kashyap, a well-known figure in Assam’s entertainment industry, had been facing charges under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to causing death by negligence.
The Fatal Accident That Shocked Assam
On July 25, the incident occurred in the Jalukbari area of Guwahati when Kashyap’s vehicle allegedly hit Haque, a college student, who was walking along the roadside. Witnesses claimed that the car was speeding, leading to fatal injuries. Haque was rushed to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) but succumbed shortly after.
Residents of the area staged protests following the accident, demanding stricter enforcement of traffic rules and immediate justice for the victim’s family. The tragic incident reignited conversations around reckless driving, particularly involving high-profile individuals.
Court’s Scathing Remarks on Police Investigation
While granting bail, the Sessions Judge criticized the police investigation, stating that the handling of evidence raised concerns. The court noted delays in submitting the charge sheet and inconsistencies in recording witness statements.
Legal experts said the court’s remarks highlighted the need for police reforms in handling sensitive cases. “There were serious gaps in the probe, and this was reflected in the court’s observation. Such lapses weaken the judicial process,” a senior lawyer in Guwahati said.
The Kamrup district police, however, maintained that they followed due process and promised to strengthen the investigation. A police spokesperson said further forensic analysis of the accident site and vehicle is underway.
Kashyap’s Legal Battle and Public Backlash
Kashyap’s bail application argued that she was not absconding and had cooperated with the investigation. Her defense claimed the accident was “unfortunate” but “unintentional.”
The actress, who has acted in popular Assamese films and television series, faced significant backlash on social media, with many questioning her accountability and calling for stringent punishment. Several student groups held protests in Guwahati, demanding swift justice for Haque’s family.
Despite her bail, Kashyap remains under legal scrutiny. She has been directed to surrender her passport and report to the police station weekly. The next hearing is scheduled later this month.
Family of Victim Seeks Justice
The victim’s family expressed disappointment over the bail decision but vowed to pursue justice. “We have lost our son, and no court order can bring him back. We want a fair trial and strict punishment for those responsible,” said Haque’s father.
Student organizations across Assam, including the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), have extended support to the family. They urged the state government to ensure that the investigation remains transparent and free from influence.
Road Safety Concerns and State Response
The accident has once again put Assam’s road safety measures under the spotlight. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Assam reported over 6,000 road accidents in 2024, many attributed to overspeeding.
Transport officials have announced plans to increase road surveillance through AI-powered cameras and stricter enforcement of drunk driving and speeding rules. The Assam government is also considering harsher penalties for reckless driving leading to fatalities.
Public Reaction and Celebrity Accountability
The case has sparked debate over celebrity culture and privilege. Many netizens accused authorities of going soft on high-profile offenders, while others called for fair proceedings without media sensationalism.
“This is a wake-up call for our state. Fame should not grant immunity from law. If we want safer roads, accountability must be equal for all,” said a Guwahati-based road safety activist.
Call for Stronger Enforcement
As the case moves forward, public pressure on authorities is mounting. Road safety activists have called for a review of traffic regulations and enhanced awareness campaigns.
The tragic death of Samiul Haque has left an indelible mark on Assam, serving as a grim reminder of the cost of negligence. The court’s rebuke of the police investigation has intensified scrutiny, ensuring this case will remain in the spotlight until justice is served.