In a gesture of solidarity, former Rajya Sabha member and BJP national spokesperson Tarun Vijay on Friday visited the grieving family of Anjel Chakma in Machmara, located in Tripura's Unakoti district. The visit comes in the wake of the brutal attack that led to the MBA student's death, an incident that has sparked nationwide debates on justice and racial discrimination.
A Tragic Loss and a Leader's Visit
Anjel Chakma, a young MBA student, was viciously assaulted by a group of miscreants in Selakui, Dehradun, on December 9. He fought for his life in the hospital for over two weeks before succumbing to his injuries on December 26. His younger brother, Michael, was present with him during the horrific attack.
Tarun Vijay's visit aimed to offer condolences and extend support to the bereaved family during this profoundly difficult time. Speaking to the media, Vijay stated that his visit was driven by a sense of solidarity. He emphasised that the tragedy was not confined to Tripura alone but resonated deeply with the people of Uttarakhand as well, where the crime occurred.
Concrete Promises and Proposed Reforms
The BJP leader made significant assurances during his interaction. He declared it imperative for the Tripura government to provide a job to Anjel's younger brother, Michael, and promised to make sincere efforts towards this goal. Moving beyond immediate relief, Vijay proposed a long-term institutional change.
He suggested the establishment of a dedicated northeast cell within the Uttarakhand Police force. This special cell would be tasked with addressing cases of racial abuse and discrimination, aiming to prevent such tragedies in the future. Vijay reiterated the Uttarakhand government's commitment to a fair and thorough investigation, assuring the public that the culprits would face exemplary punishment.
National Outrage and Investigation Updates
The killing has sent shockwaves across Tripura and the broader northeast region, uniting organisations, activists, and citizens in grief and outrage. Protests have intensified, demanding a swift trial and stringent action against the accused. The attack is reported to have stemmed from racist slurs, with the assailants allegedly calling Anjel and his brother "Chinese" while under the influence of alcohol.
Providing an update on the probe, Vijay informed that four out of the five accused have been arrested. The prime suspect, however, is believed to have fled to Nepal. In response, the Uttarakhand Police has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to expedite the investigation and ensure the fugitive's capture. Vijay also met Tripura Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu to brief him on the investigation and seek further assurances regarding its progress.
Support from the Tribal Council
In a separate show of support, the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council has extended financial assistance of Rs 3 lakh to the bereaved family. The council's chief executive member, Purna Chandra Jamatia, personally visited the family to deliver the cheque and assured them of additional assistance as required. This act, along with the political visit, highlights the widespread impact of the incident and the collective demand for justice and societal change.
