The Uttarakhand Police stated on Monday that their investigation has so far uncovered no evidence to suggest the fatal assault on 24-year-old Tripura student Angel Chakma in Dehradun was racially motivated. The MBA student succumbed to his injuries last week after a violent altercation on December 9.
Police Investigation Details
According to the police, the incident occurred near a liquor shop where one of the accused, Suraj from Manipur, was celebrating his son's birthday. Investigator PD Bhatt was quoted as saying, "We have found no evidence so far to link the incident with racism. There is no basis for such allegations." The police narrative describes an argument that broke out between Chakma, his brother Michael, and another group, which later escalated violently.
Senior Superintendent of Police, Dehradun, Ajay Singh, offered further clarification. He indicated that derogatory remarks exchanged "in jest" within a group created a false impression that the comments were directed at the Chakma brothers. "It doesn't fall into the category of a racist comment because a young man involved in the incident is also a resident of the same state," Singh told NDTV, suggesting the clash stemmed from this confusion.
Contradictory Accounts and Arrests
This police version contrasts with the account given by the victim's brother, Michael Chakma. He asserted that on December 9, while they were out buying groceries, a group of inebriated individuals initiated a fight, used racist slurs, and stabbed Angel.
Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. Among them, two are minors and have been sent to a juvenile reform home. Investigator Bhatt noted that it remains unclear who delivered the fatal stab wound, as those in custody claim an absconding accused was responsible. "It will only be clear after his arrest who actually carried out the stabbing," Bhatt said, adding that none of the arrested have prior criminal records.
Political Reaction and National Outcry
The case has drawn significant attention and prompted a strong reaction from Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. On Monday, he expressed "dismay and anger" over the killing and described racism as a "very big disease" that has no place in India. He called for a united fight against such a mindset.
"Such kind of incidents are very shameful for the country. It causes harm to society and the country as well just because of some people's mindset," Rijiju told reporters. He emphasized that the incident should not be viewed in isolation and that the entire nation should feel sorrow over it. The minister also stated that the Uttarakhand government is taking "tough actions" against the culprits.
Angel Chakma, who was attacked with knives and blunt objects, fought for his life for over two weeks before passing away on December 26. The police have confirmed that further investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death is ongoing.
