A deeply disturbing incident in Dehradun has led to the death of a young student from Tripura and has sparked nationwide concern. A 24-year-old MBA student, Anjel Chakma, who was critically injured in a knife attack, lost his life on Friday, 26 December, after fighting for survival for more than two weeks. He was undergoing treatment at a private hospital when he finally succumbed to his injuries.

According to the police, five people have been arrested so far in connection with the crime. The accused have been identified as Suraj Khwas (22), Avinash Negi (25), Sumit (25), along with two juveniles. Authorities have also stated that a sixth accused managed to flee and is believed to have escaped to Nepal. In an effort to trace him, the police have announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for any information that leads to his arrest.

Details of the incident, as shared by Anjel Chakma’s brother Michael Chakma, reveal a shocking chain of events. The attack took place near a canteen when the two brothers had gone to purchase groceries. Michael Chakma said the accused made racial remarks and referred to him as “Chinese”. When he objected to the comment, the situation quickly escalated into violence. The attackers assaulted Michael, and when Anjel stepped in to protect his brother, the accused hit him on the head and stabbed him in the neck and abdomen. Anjel Chakma was immediately taken to Graphic Era Hospital, where doctors tried to save his life. Despite prolonged treatment, he could not recover from the severe injuries.

The murder of Anjel Chakma, along with the serious allegations of racial abuse, has triggered widespread outrage. Political leaders, student groups, and activists from several North-Eastern states have raised strong voices against the incident. Many have pointed out that this case reflects the racial prejudice and discrimination that people from the North-East often face due to ignorance and lawlessness in different parts of the country.

Chief Ministers of Assam and Meghalaya React Strongly

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma strongly condemned the incident and expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of Anjel Chakma’s life. In a post on X, he wrote, “The tragic death of Anjel Chakma from Tripura following brutal racial abuse in Dehradun is heartbreaking and unacceptable. I urge the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, @pushkardhami (Pushkar Singh Dhami) to ensure strict action against the culprits so that justice is served. My deepest condolences to Anjel’s family. May his soul rest in peace,” Sarma said on Saturday. His statement underlined the seriousness of the crime and the need for firm legal action.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma also condemned the attack and highlighted the larger issue of racism faced by people from the North-East. Sharing his reaction on X, CM Sangma said, “Anjel Chakma from Tripura lost his life after facing brutal racial abuse in Dehradun. This is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Racial violence must not be tolerated. People from the North East are as Indian as every citizen of this country. Racism should never be normalised, and the perpetrators must be punished. My deepest condolences to Anjel’s family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace,” he posted on Saturday. His remarks emphasized equality, national unity, and zero tolerance for racial violence.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha also took note of the incident and personally spoke to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. CM Saha later said that CM Dhami had assured him that complete action would be taken in the case and that justice would be delivered to the family of the deceased. This assurance came as a small relief to many who have been demanding accountability and swift punishment for those responsible.

Protests Erupt After Student’s Death

After the death of Anjel Chakma was confirmed, protests erupted in several places, including Dehradun, Tripura, and other parts of the country. Students, activists, and concerned citizens gathered to express their anger and grief, calling for stronger protection for people from the North-East living and studying outside their home states.

On Sunday, 28 December, the Tripura Chakma Students Association formally appealed to the central government to intervene. The association highlighted repeated cases of attacks and discrimination against students from the North-East in different regions of India. Their demand reflects a growing call for stronger laws, better awareness, and firm action to ensure the safety and dignity of every citizen, regardless of their region or appearance.