Chatra: Anger and grief swept through parts of Chatra district in Jharkhand after four teenage boys lost their lives in a road accident, triggering a massive protest that brought traffic to a standstill for over 16 hours.
The incident took place late Thursday evening near Chiraiyatand under the jurisdiction of Piparwar Police Station, when a speeding Mahindra Scorpio SUV allegedly collided with a motorcycle carrying four minors.
Three boys — Vikas Kumar (15), Manjit Mahto (14) and Pratap Kumar (15) — died instantly at the scene. The fourth victim, Son Kumar (15), sustained critical injuries and later succumbed while being taken to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences in Ranchi.
Police said the boys were returning to Hafuwa-Baradih village in the Piparwar area after visiting Bhelwatand in neighbouring Khalari when the crash occurred. The impact was so severe that both the motorcycle and the SUV were badly damaged.
The tragic deaths sparked outrage among local residents and family members. Late Thursday night, villagers placed the bodies on the road and began blocking the highway, demanding justice and compensation. The protest continued until Friday afternoon, halting coal transport and other traffic in the area. Long lines of trucks and vehicles were seen stranded on both sides of the road.
Three of the victims were residents of Baradih village, while one belonged to Hafuwa. The tragedy has left both villages in deep mourning.
Protesters have been sitting at the accident site, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible, adequate financial compensation for the bereaved families, and government jobs for the victims’ relatives. They also called for stricter enforcement against reckless driving and overspeeding by vehicles in the region.
Police personnel from Piparwar Police Station and local administrative officials reached the spot soon after the incident and have remained deployed there since Thursday night to maintain order.
Authorities initially tried to take the bodies for post-mortem examination, but villagers refused, insisting that the administration first provide firm assurances regarding their demands.
Officials said several rounds of discussions have been held with the protesters, and the administration has assured compensation to the families as per government norms.
A heavy police presence continues at the site, while senior officials are trying to persuade the villagers to end the blockade so that traffic can resume.