The Assam government has instructed all District Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police to ensure that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s convoy does not obstruct emergency services or inconvenience the public. The directive came a day after an ambulance carrying a critically ill patient was stopped in Silchar to make way for the convoy, leading to the suspension of four police personnel for alleged negligence.
Following the incident, the Chief Minister’s Office issued standing instructions for VIP movements. Ambulances, fire tenders and police response vehicles must always have unrestricted passage, and the CM’s convoy must stop if necessary to allow emergency vehicles through. Traffic officials are also required to plan diversions and routes to minimise disruption to commuters.
Sarma apologised to the patient and his family and called the incident “unacceptable.” The patient, Rasuraj Chakraborty of Bhanga in Sribhumi district, was being taken to Silchar Medical College and Hospital for advanced treatment after his liver-related condition became critical. He died at the hospital on Thursday morning, according to reports.
The government has also limited the CM’s convoy to the minimum number of vehicles needed for security and operational requirements. Cabinet ministers, MLAs and other visiting dignitaries attending the same event may no longer join or travel alongside the convoy, and their vehicles must move separately.
Officials responsible for convoy and traffic arrangements will be held personally accountable for ensuring compliance. The government warned that violations or failures to implement the instructions would be viewed seriously.
