A 24-year-old MBA student from Tripura has died following a violent assault in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, in an incident police allege was fueled by racial abuse. The victim, Anjel Chakma, succumbed to his injuries on Friday morning, December 27, 2025, eighteen days after the attack.
Details of the Brutal Assault
The incident occurred on December 9, 2025, between 6 and 7 PM in the Selaqui area. Anjel and his brother, Michael Chakma, residents of Unakoti district in Tripura, had stepped out to purchase items when they were confronted by a group of five men. According to the police complaint filed by Michael the next day, the accused, who appeared to be intoxicated, began hurling racial and casteist slurs at the brothers.
When the Chakma brothers objected to the abuse, the situation escalated violently. The assailants attacked them with weapons, including a knife and a metal bracelet (kada). Michael was struck on the head with the kada. As Anjel intervened to protect his brother, he was stabbed in the abdomen and head with a sharp weapon.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Anjel was rushed to Graphic Era Hospital in critical condition, where he battled for his life for over two weeks. The complaint also stated that the accused threatened to kill the brothers if they reported the incident to the police, causing them significant fear as they lived alone.
Based on Michael's complaint, an FIR was registered at the Selaqui police station. Initially, the accused were charged with attempted murder. Five days after the incident, on December 14, police arrested all five suspects: Avinash Negi, Shaurya Rajput, Suraj Khwas, Sumit, and Ayush Badoni.
During interrogation, the accused claimed the altercation began following an argument at a liquor shop in Selaqui. However, following Anjel's tragic death, the police have now added the murder charge under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. All five accused are currently in judicial custody, confirmed Senior Sub-Inspector Jitender Kumar.
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
The death of Anjel Chakma, a young student pursuing an MBA at a private university in Dehradun, has sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted grave concerns about racial violence and safety. The upgrade of the charges to murder signifies the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case.
The investigation continues as legal proceedings against the accused are set to advance. The case underscores the urgent need to address hate crimes and ensure the security of students from all regions of India pursuing education away from their homes.
