Pressure groups from Phulbari have written to the West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner to seek justice for the victim of a fatal road accident.
Andrew Marak, a promising sportsperson, lost his life after being hit by a motorcycle rider on September 5 along the AMPT Road.
Marak was walking home at the time. The NGOs alleged that the perpetrator of the accident was drunk and speeding at the time, which led him to lose control of his bike.
“We stand in solidarity with the victim and his family, who lost their firstborn to this unfortunate incident,” the pressure groups said. “The family has been in shock and it is this mental agony that has not let them file an FIR against the perpetrator. However, it is the government’s duty to ensure such acts are not repeated.”
The NGOs have suggested that the entire Chibinang to Phulbari route be made into a slow driving zone and speed breakers be provided at regular intervals so that speeding is controlled, especially in front of places of worship, schools, hospitals and government offices.
The groups claimed that underage boys have also been seen speeding along the AMPT Road but, when caught by authorities, resort to dropping the names of politicians in an effort to get away with their crimes.
“They make it feel as if the politician is the biggest criminal encouraging such acts. These rash acts have the potential to even create communal tensions and have to be controlled,” said the NGOs.
They have further demanded that the person responsible for Marak’s death be charged with murder or they will begin agitations.
