A tragic incident rocked the quiet town of Jagun in Assam’s Tinsukia district on Tuesday, June 10. A 27-year-old woman identified as Aarti Lama reportedly jumped into the Namphai River with her young child. Local residents acted quickly and rescued the minor. However, the woman remains missing as of Wednesday morning.
The incident took place at the Namphai ghat, a commonly used river access point for daily chores and religious rituals. According to eyewitnesses, Aarti was seen holding her child near the ghat before jumping into the water.
Locals Act Swiftly, Save the Child: Namphai River woman Case
Witnesses immediately raised an alarm. A group of locals, including fishermen and shopkeepers, rushed into the water. After a frantic few minutes, they were able to pull the child out. The minor was taken to a nearby health center and is reported to be in stable condition.
One local resident, Ramesh Chetri, who helped in the rescue, said, “We heard people shouting and ran to the river. We saw the child floating and managed to save him. But the mother had already disappeared under the current.”
Search Operation Launched for Missing Woman
Following the incident, police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were informed. Teams arrived within an hour and began search operations, using boats and divers to scan the area.
Jagun Police Officer-in-Charge Rajen Mili said, “We are treating the matter with urgency. A search operation is underway across a 3-kilometer stretch of the Namphai River.”
The swift current and rising water levels due to pre-monsoon rains have made rescue efforts more challenging.
Family in Shock, Motive Unknown
Family members of Aarti Lama are in deep shock. They informed the police that there were no prior signs of distress. Aarti was a homemaker and lived in a rented house near the Jagun market area.
Her husband, Sanjay Lama, told media, “She had no disputes with anyone. We don’t understand what led to this. We just want her back.”
Police have not ruled out mental health issues or domestic stress as possible triggers. They are speaking with neighbors and family members to gather more information.
Authorities Appeal for Public Support
The Tinsukia district administration has urged the public to avoid spreading rumors or speculating on social media. Videos and photos of the rescue are already circulating online, raising concerns about misinformation.
Deputy Commissioner Swapnil Paul said, “We request people to refrain from sharing unverified content. Our focus is on finding the missing woman. Anyone with information should contact Jagun Police or the district control room.”
The Assam Police has also activated local community networks, including tea garden workers and village heads, to assist in the search.
Rising Mental Health Concerns
This incident has highlighted growing mental health concerns in rural Assam. Activists are urging the government to set up counseling services in semi-urban areas like Jagun.
Social worker Lila Hazarika said, “We need more support systems for young mothers and struggling families. Emotional trauma is invisible, but it is real.”
The Health Department may launch awareness campaigns on emotional well-being and early signs of depression in vulnerable populations.
More About Namphai River woman Case
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. Contact the Assam Mental Health Helpline or the national helpline at 1800-599-0019.
The search for Aarti Lama continues. Authorities have vowed to intensify the operation until closure is achieved. Meanwhile, the rescued child remains safe, now under the care of relatives.
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