On the morning of the incident, a government bus carrying 32 Border Security Force (BSF) jawans slammed into the rear of a truck near Howly on National Highway 27. The collision, which took place as the bus was heading toward Dhubri after completing election duty, tore the bus apart and sent the driver, Samsul Hoque, into a fatal crash.
The impact left 32 jawans with injuries ranging from mild to critical. Fourteen of them were rushed to Barpeta Medical College and Hospital, where three have been admitted to the intensive care unit, one of whom is in a life‑supporting state.
Hoque, a 42‑year‑old resident of Garoimari in Shimlitola, Goalpara district, was pronounced dead at the scene. His death has added a grim layer to the tragedy that also involved the wounded soldiers.
Howly police officers arrived within minutes and began a preliminary investigation. They are collecting eyewitness statements and inspecting the wreckage for any mechanical failures that might have contributed to the crash.
The incident underscores the risks that BSF personnel face even off duty, especially during the hectic election season. Authorities are expected to file a detailed report and may consider disciplinary action against the driver if negligence is found.