A 24-year-old MBA student from Tripura, Anjel (Angel) Chakma, succumbed to his injuries after being brutally assaulted in a suspected racial attack in Dehradun, triggering widespread outrage and protests across Tripura and other parts of the Northeast.
The incident occurred on December 9 in the Selaqui area of Dehradun, when Anjel Chakma and his younger brother were allegedly subjected to racial slurs by a group of local youths while they were out to buy groceries. According to police and eyewitness accounts, the attackers used derogatory terms referring to their physical appearance, reportedly calling them “Chinese” and mocking their identity.
When Anjel objected to the abuse and asserted, “I’m Indian,” an argument ensued, which soon escalated into violence. He was allegedly struck repeatedly and stabbed during the attack. His brother also sustained injuries while trying to intervene.
Anjel was rushed to a private hospital in critical condition and remained in intensive care for more than two weeks. Despite medical efforts, he died on December 26 due to complications arising from the injuries.
Following his death, Uttarakhand Police upgraded the case to murder and added charges of criminal conspiracy. Several accused have been arrested, while the prime suspect is reportedly absconding. Police have formed special teams to track him down and announced a reward for information leading to his arrest.
The killing has sparked strong reactions in Tripura, with students, civil society organisations and tribal bodies staging protests demanding swift justice and strict punishment for those responsible. Demonstrators also called for stronger legal safeguards against racial discrimination and violence targeting people from the Northeast.
Political leaders and rights groups have condemned the incident, describing it as a grim reminder of the persistent racial prejudice faced by people from the region in other parts of the country. The Chakma Development Foundation of India and other organisations have demanded a fast-track trial and implementation of long-pending recommendations to address racial crimes.
As Anjel Chakma’s body was brought back to Tripura for last rites, the case has reignited a national debate on racism, identity and safety of Northeastern citizens, with growing calls for systemic measures to prevent such attacks and ensure justice for victims.
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