A deeply disturbing incident from Sitamarhi district in Bihar has sparked outrage, after a fatal road accident involving a schoolboy was followed by shocking insensitivity from bystanders, who allegedly looted fish from the accident vehicle instead of helping the victim.
Student dies on way to coaching class
The incident occurred near Jhajhihat village under the jurisdiction of the Pupri police station. Ritesh Kumar, a Class 7 student also known as Golu, was on his way to his morning coaching class when he was hit by a speeding pickup truck.
Police said Ritesh, the son of Santosh Das, died on the spot due to the impact of the collision. Family members rushed to the scene after hearing the screams but were left devastated on finding the child dead.
Crowd loots fish as body lies nearby
While the family mourned the loss of the young boy, the scene nearby took a disturbing turn. The pickup truck involved in the accident was carrying a consignment of fish, which spilled onto the road after the crash.
Instead of calling for medical help or informing the authorities, several people who gathered at the spot allegedly began looting the fish. Eyewitnesses said individuals were seen filling sacks and fleeing, even as the child’s body lay close by, drawing widespread condemnation.
Police intervene, probe launched
After being informed, personnel from the Pupri police station reached the spot, dispersed the crowd and took custody of the body. Ritesh’s body was sent for post-mortem examination.
Police have seized the pickup truck involved in the accident and launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the crash and identify those responsible. Officials said further action will be taken based on the findings.
The incident has triggered anger and sorrow across the district, with residents and social observers calling it a grim reflection of declining civic responsibility.