Assam Congress Calls for Increased Compensation for Kaziranga Accident Victims

Urgent Appeal for Enhanced Support

Guwahati, Nov 15: The Assam Congress has formally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase the compensation for those affected by the tragic collision involving a traveller and a truck in Kaziranga. They are also advocating for free medical treatment for the injured and financial support for the families of the 26 individuals who lost their lives in the incident.

In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, Debabrata Saikia, the former Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, expressed gratitude for the financial aid announced shortly after the accident. However, he emphasized that the scale of the tragedy necessitates a more substantial compensation package and better rehabilitation efforts.

Saikia proposed that the compensation for the families of the deceased be raised to a minimum of Rs 20 lakh, which would include the Rs 9 lakh already pledged by both the Central and State governments. He also requested additional support for families who have lost multiple members.

Furthermore, he called for free medical care, rehabilitation, and disability compensation for those injured, along with scholarships for the children of the deceased and livelihood support for families that lost their main earners.

Saikia highlighted several pressing issues in the Kaziranga area, such as the safety of NH-715, the availability of healthcare services, alleged misuse of hospital facilities, environmental conservation, the expansion of eco-sensitive zones, and land acquisition concerns.

He urged for a comprehensive evaluation of the road's condition, design, maintenance, traffic management, and safety measures, advocating for immediate action to enhance highway safety, healthcare, and infrastructure in the region.

Saikia insisted on holding administrative accountability and called for an investigation into the actions of the drivers involved in the crash.

He also expressed dissatisfaction with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's response following his visit to the accident site the day after the incident. Saikia noted that while Sarma announced ex gratia payments and promised an inquiry, his comments did not sufficiently address the local concerns regarding the highway.

Officials reported that at least 26 individuals, including women and minors, died, and 20 others sustained injuries in the head-on collision between a minibus and a container truck near Kaziranga National Park on Friday, with many victims being college students.