A tragic incident in Dehradun has resulted in the death of a young student from India's northeast, highlighting concerns over racial targeting and safety. Angel Chakma, a 24-year-old final year Master of Computer Applications (MCA) student hailing from Tripura's Unakoti district, died from his injuries on Friday morning. The fatal attack occurred on December 9 in the Selaqui area after he and his brother opposed racial slurs hurled at them.
Details of the Selaqui Attack
The victim, Angel Chakma, was out buying groceries with his younger brother, 21-year-old Michael Chakma, when they encountered six local youths. According to the police complaint filed by Michael on December 12, the group, which included two school students, began directing racial slurs at the brothers.
Senior Sub-Inspector Jitendra Kumar stated that when Michael opposed the abuse, he was struck on the head with a bracelet. As Angel stepped in to protect his brother, one of the accused, Yagya Awasthi, stabbed him in the head and back. The knife wound severely damaged Angel's spinal cord, causing him to collapse immediately.
The accused had reportedly gathered to celebrate the first birthday of one accused Suraj Khwas's son. They fled the scene after the assault. Michael rushed his critically injured brother to a nearby hospital, where Angel fought for his life until succumbing to his injuries on Friday.
Police Action and Accused Profiles
Following Michael's complaint, the Selaqui police registered a case under sections of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Initial charges included voluntarily causing hurt and criminal intimidation. After Angel's death, more severe sections for murder and criminal conspiracy were added to the First Information Report (FIR).
Five of the six accused were arrested on December 14 and are currently in judicial custody. The main alleged assailant, Yagya Awasthi, remains at large. The arrested individuals have been identified as:
- Avinash Negi (25): Runs a tea stall; son of a Kargil war martyr.
- Suraj Khwas (21): Originally from Manipur; runs a bakery.
- Sumit Kumar (25): Unemployed.
- Shaurya (18): A Class 10 student.
- Ayush Badoni (18): A Class 12 student.
Outcry and Official Response
The death has sparked condemnation and renewed calls for the safety of people from northeastern states living across India. Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma, founder of Tripura's Tipra Motha Party, expressed his grief on social media, offering condolences to the family and demanding justice for Angel Chakma.
In response to the incident, Uttarakhand police officials emphasized their commitment to security. ADG (Law & Order) V Murugesan informed that the state police has a dedicated Northeast cell and directives have been issued to all districts to activate these cells to ensure the safety of residents from the northeastern region.
This case underscores the persistent challenge of racial prejudice and violence, even as authorities reiterate existing protective measures. The community awaits the arrest of the final accused and hopes for a swift judicial process.
