In a heartbreaking development following a hit-and-run accident involving Assamese actress Nandini Kashyap, 23-year-old Samiul Haque, a final-year engineering student, succumbed to his injuries at Apollo Hospitals on Tuesday. The tragic incident occurred on July 25, just hours after Samiul had joined the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) as a temporary employee.
Samiul, also a student at Nalbari Polytechnic, was initially admitted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) but was later shifted to Apollo Hospitals due to the severity of his condition. He remained on life support in the ICU before being declared dead. His untimely demise has triggered massive outrage across the state, with calls for justice growing louder.
Guwahati Mayor Mrigen Sarania confirmed Samiul’s employment with the GMC and said compensation may be considered if he is found to have been a permanent employee.
Actress Nandini Kashyap Questioned and Detained
In connection with the incident, Nandini Kashyap appeared at Dispur Police Station on Monday morning for questioning. She was interrogated for nearly eight hours and later addressed the media, denying accusations of fleeing the accident scene.
“I did not flee the scene. If I had, I wouldn’t have returned here today,” Kashyap told reporters.
“I wasn’t aware how badly he was injured.”
However, her remarks were criticized by many, as she appeared visibly indifferent and avoided several direct questions from journalists. She later visited GMCH to meet the victim’s family and reportedly offered financial assistance for Samiul’s treatment.
Despite her public statements, on Tuesday night, Guwahati Police detained Kashyap from a rehearsal venue at Rajdhani Theatre in North Guwahati. She was taken to the All Women Police Station at Panbazar for further interrogation. While no formal arrest has been made, police have confirmed her detention as part of the ongoing investigation.
Investigation Underway, Family Demands Justice
The police have seized the vehicle involved in the incident — a white car bearing registration number AS 01FM 9199 — and are examining CCTV footage and forensic evidence to ascertain who was behind the wheel.
Eyewitnesses claim the vehicle, allegedly driven by Kashyap, was speeding at the time of the accident. An FIR has been lodged at Dispur Police Station by the All Assam Polytechnic Students’ Union (AAPSU), urging authorities to ensure strict legal action.
Samiul’s family, reeling from the loss, has raised concerns about delays in the investigation and demanded that justice not be hindered by the celebrity status of the accused.
“We just want justice for our son. Whether she’s a celebrity or not, action must be taken,” a grieving family member said.
Public Reaction and Institutional Response
The incident has sparked protests and public demonstrations by civil society groups and student organizations demanding a fair, transparent, and speedy investigation.
In response to the controversy, Rajdhani Theatre terminated Kashyap’s two-year contract, citing the need to uphold the institution’s reputation and ongoing productions.
The Assamese film fraternity has also expressed sorrow. Actor Ravi Sarma, Kashyap’s co-star in the film Rudra, shared a heartfelt message on social media:
“The tragic loss of Samiul Haque has deeply saddened me. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”
