A 24-year-old MBA student from Tripura died in a Dehradun hospital on Friday, more than two weeks after being stabbed following a confrontation with a group of men. The attack occurred on December 9th after Anjel Chakma responded to racial slurs by stating, “We are not Chinese… We are Indians. What certificate should we show to prove that?”
A Grocery Run Turned Fatal
The incident began during a routine trip to a local market in the Selaqui area of Dehradun. Anjel and his brother, Michael, both students who had been in Dehradun for over a year, were reportedly stopped and subjected to derogatory remarks. When Anjel asserted their Indian identity, the situation escalated into violence.
According to a friend of Anjel’s, who requested anonymity, the group attacked both brothers while continuing to hurl abuse. Anjel sustained severe injuries to his neck and spine. Michael was also injured and remains in serious condition. The friend described Anjel as a calm and friendly person, expressing shock and grief over his death.
Calls for Justice and a National Law
Anjel’s body was transported to Agartala on Saturday, prompting protests in Tripura. Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma, chairman of Tipra Motha Party, assisted the family and spoke out against the attack, stating, “It’s tragic that the patriotic people of the northeast are called Chinese and attacked.” He added that such incidents are divisive and leave the nation vulnerable.
Suraj Debbarma, state president of Youth Tipra Federation, noted that people from the northeast regularly face racial slurs in other parts of India, while students from other regions are welcomed in the northeast. He characterized Anjel’s death as a loss of an innocent life due to a hate crime.
Investigation and Arrests
Police registered a case on December 12th based on a complaint filed by Michael Chakma. Five of the six accused, including two juveniles, were apprehended by December 14th. Senior sub-inspector Jitendra Kumar reported that the main accused, Yagya Awasthi, is suspected to have fled to Nepal, and two police teams have been dispatched to locate and arrest him. A reward of Rs 25,000 has been offered for information leading to his capture.
Following Anjel’s death, additional charges of murder and committing a crime with common intention were added to the case. Protests are now underway in colleges across the northeast, with students demanding a national law to address racial hate crimes. Student organizations in Dehradun are also beginning to voice their concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the attack on Anjel Chakma and his brother?
The attack occurred after Anjel and his brother were subjected to racial slurs and derogatory remarks by a group of men. Anjel responded by asserting their Indian identity, which reportedly escalated the situation.
How many suspects have been apprehended in connection with the case?
Five of the six accused, including two juveniles, were apprehended by police on December 14th. The main accused, Yagya Awasthi, is currently at large and suspected to have fled to Nepal.
What is the response to Anjel Chakma’s death in Tripura?
Anjel’s body was flown to Agartala, and protests have erupted in Tripura. His family received assistance from Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma, and there are widespread calls for justice.
As investigations continue and the search for the remaining suspect intensifies, will this tragedy spur broader conversations and concrete action to address racial prejudice and ensure the safety and dignity of all Indian citizens?
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