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The incident took place on December 9 in Dehradun’s Selaqui area, where Chakma was allegedly attacked after an altercation that also included racial abuse. According to news agency PTI, he died during treatment at a private hospital on December 26.
According to the police, Angel Chakma and his younger brother Michael were in a canteen near a liquor shop when a group of five to six people allegedly passed derogatory comments.
Dehradun Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh said, “It seemed as if someone was commenting on him (Angel).”
In the confusion a fight broke out, during which Chakma was allegedly attacked with sharp-edged weapons and ‘Kada’ (bracelets). According to PTI, he suffered serious head, neck and spinal injuries and was hospitalized for more than two weeks before his death.
Racist slurs and last words
Friends and witnesses said the attack occurred after a racial slur was directed at the Chakma brothers, who were allegedly called “Chinese”.
Before the attack escalated, Angel Chakma reportedly responded calmly, “We are not Chinese. We are Indians. What certificate should we show to prove this?” Moments later, he was stabbed to death. According to a report in News18, his brother Michael was also injured and is in critical condition.
Police action and arrests
After Angel Chakma’s death, murder charges were added to the case. Uttarakhand Police said five of the six accused have been arrested, including two minors who have been sent to a juvenile home.
One accused, who is believed to be a citizen of Nepal, is absconding. Police teams have been sent to Nepal to trace him and a reward has been given. A reward of Rs 25,000 has been announced for anyone providing information leading to his arrest.
Political reactions and assurances
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said he had spoken to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who assured him that all those responsible would be arrested.
Saha said, “I have already spoken to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami ji regarding the tragic incident that happened with our student Angel Chakma.”
Dhami also publicly said that such incidents are unacceptable and strict action will be taken.
Tipra Motha Party supremo Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma said he has spoken to the victim’s family and assured justice. “We will ensure that the murderers get appropriate punishment,” he wrote on Facebook, according to PTI.
Widespread reaction and protest
Angel Chakma’s body was taken to Agartala on Saturday, December 27. Following his death, student groups in Tripura and other northeastern states have launched protests and messages of solidarity, with renewed calls for stronger action against racial hate crimes.
According to News18, student organizations in Dehradun have also called for better security and respect for students across India.