A 21-year-old MBA student from Tripura has died following a violent assault that erupted from an argument over alleged racial abuse in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The victim, Angel Chakma, passed away on Friday, 26 December, nearly two weeks after the brutal incident that took place on 9 December near a liquor shop in the Selaqui area.
Details of the Fatal Confrontation
According to police reports, the tragic episode unfolded when Angel Chakma and his brother, Michael Chakma, were at a canteen near the liquor outlet. Another group present at the location, allegedly in an inebriated state, began directing racial slurs at the brothers. This led to a heated argument after the Chakma brothers objected to the abuse.
The situation quickly escalated into violence. Angel Chakma sustained grievous injuries after being stabbed with a sharp object and also beaten with a 'kadaa' (bracelet), primarily on his head and back. Dehradun Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajai Singh stated that initial investigations suggested the attackers were arguing among themselves, and it seemed someone made a comment targeting Angel, which sparked the confrontation.
Police Action and Arrests Made
Following the attack, a case was registered, and police formed a special team to investigate the murder. So far, five individuals have been arrested in connection with the crime. Among the accused are Suraj Khwas (22), Avinash Negi (25), and Sumit (25).
Of the five arrested, two are reported to be juveniles. They have been sent to a correctional home as per juvenile justice laws. Two other adult accused have been sent to jail. However, one prime suspect, identified as a Nepali national who lives in Haridwar, remains absconding. The police have issued a non-bailable warrant for his arrest and have announced a reward of ₹25,000 for information leading to his capture.
Who Was Angel Chakma?
Angel Chakma was a young student pursuing an MBA at a university in Dehradun. He originally hailed from Nandannagar in the West Tripura district. His father, who serves as a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan posted in the Northeast, has taken his son's body back to their hometown in Tripura for the final rites.
The incident has cast a spotlight on issues of racial prejudice and violent crime. It underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement and societal sensitivity to prevent such hate-driven tragedies in the future.
