Dehradun Police Pursue International Arrest Warrant in Fatal Stabbing of MBA Student
Police authorities in Dehradun have formally initiated proceedings to secure a red corner notice against Yagya Awasthi, identified as the primary suspect in the brutal murder of Anjel Chakma. The victim, a 24-year-old MBA student hailing from Tripura, tragically succumbed to his injuries after allegedly being stabbed for confronting racial abuse.
Details of the Tragic Incident and Ongoing Manhunt
Awasthi, whom investigators have confirmed is a native of Kanchanpur district in Nepal, has remained at large since December 9. On that fateful day, Anjel Chakma and his brother Michael were reportedly assaulted by a group of six individuals in the Selaqui area of Dehradun. According to police reports, Awasthi inflicted a stab wound to Anjel's back, resulting in severe spinal cord damage. While Michael survived the attack with injuries, Anjel's condition deteriorated, and he passed away on December 26 while receiving treatment at a hospital in Dehradun.
The other five accused persons involved in the assault, all residents of Selaqui including two juveniles, were apprehended by police on December 14. They have been formally charged under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including murder, common intention, voluntarily causing hurt, causing hurt with dangerous weapons, criminal intimidation, and criminal conspiracy.
Police Coordination and International Efforts
Dehradun SP (Rural-Vikasnagar) Pankaj Gairola provided an update on the investigation, stating, "The necessary documentation required for issuing a red corner notice has been completed, and we are actively coordinating with the concerned authorities. The notice is expected to be issued imminently." Prior to this escalation, police had announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for any information leading directly to Awasthi's capture.
An officer from the Dehradun police force elaborated on the challenges, noting, "Continuous efforts have been underway to trace Awasthi through coordination with our counterparts in Nepal, but he has successfully evaded arrest so far." The officer further revealed that a blue corner notice—typically issued to locate a suspect or gather information on their whereabouts—had previously been circulated against Awasthi. A red corner notice represents a more severe international alert, specifically aimed at locating and arresting a fugitive.
Concerns Over Fugitive's Movements and Border Security
In a related development, a senior police official in Nepal, who is coordinating closely with the Dehradun police, expressed concerns that Awasthi might attempt to flee the country. The officer, who requested anonymity, disclosed, "Initial suspicions arose that he could attempt to fly out of Nepal after fleeing there, but investigations revealed he does not currently possess a passport. We are maintaining communication with the immigration department to monitor any potential attempts to leave. Coordination with Uttarakhand police remains ongoing."
The case has drawn significant attention due to its violent nature and the international dimensions of the manhunt. Authorities remain determined to bring the fugitive to justice and provide closure for the victim's family.
