GUWAHATI, Sept 26: A large number of residents blocked National Highway 17 near Azara in Guwahati on Saturday, protesting the death of a 22-year-old Gauhati University student whose body was found near Azara PHC. The blockade disrupted traffic on the key route connecting the city with Guwahati airport.
The protest followed preliminary findings of a magisterial inquest, which reportedly recorded injury marks on the woman’s face, head, hands and private parts. Police and district administration officials reached the spot as residents continued the blockade.
The deceased was identified as Nimisha Thakuria, a student enrolled in a five-year integrated course at Gauhati University.
According to police, Nimisha was found unconscious near Garal PHC at around 4.30 am. Three men who found her took her to the health facility, from where she was shifted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). Doctors declared her brought dead.
Police have detained Ashiq Ali in connection with the case and are questioning him. Investigators are also examining whether Ali and Nimisha were in a relationship.
According to initial reports, Nimisha had gone out with a friend on Friday night and had reportedly stayed at Rudra’s Kitchen homestay in Dharapur. Her body was later found near Azara PHC.
Guwahati Deputy Commissioner of Police Bolin Deori said Ali had claimed that Nimisha died by suicide after hanging herself. However, police said the claim was being verified and that investigators were examining all possible angles.
“We have apprehended the accused, and he is in police custody, and we are questioning him. We have sent the body for post-mortem, and we can get more information later,” Deori told reporters.
On Ali’s claim, Deori said police would not accept it without verification and would investigate every angle.
Police said Ali had acknowledged being in a relationship with Nimisha. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding their meeting, the events leading up to her being found unconscious and the injuries noted during the inquest.
The post-mortem examination and further investigation are expected to establish the circumstances and cause of Nimisha’s death.
