Who Are the Killers of Angel Chakma? Controversy Erupts Over Alleged Racial Attack in Dehradun

The tragic killing of Tripura student Angel Chakma in Dehradun has sparked nationwide attention and heated debates. Several student organizations, including the All India Chakma Students Union, have termed the incident a racially motivated attack (hate crime) and demanded swift justice. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has issued notices to the Dehradun Police and administration, seeking a response within three days regarding the investigation.

However, the Dehradun Police have strongly denied claims of racial motivation, stating that the attack stemmed from a sudden altercation between two groups.

Police Statement on the Attack
SSP Ajay Singh clarified that Angel Chakma’s death was not racially motivated. According to the police, the conflict arose from a verbal argument between groups in a public market, which escalated into a violent clash. Investigations revealed that both Angel Chakma and his brother Michael were attacked by individuals from the Northeast, specifically from hilly regions like Manipur and Nepal. The attackers are reportedly from the Boksa tribal community.

So far, five accused individuals have been arrested, including two minors. One suspect remains at large, with a ₹25,000 reward announced for information leading to his capture. Police investigations suggest the fugitive has crossed into Nepal, and teams have been deployed across the border to apprehend him.

Incident Details
On the day of the attack, Angel Chakma and his brother were shopping in a market when a group of six young men consuming alcohol got into a verbal confrontation with them. The argument quickly turned violent, resulting in Angel sustaining severe injuries. Despite medical treatment, he succumbed to his injuries. SSP Singh emphasized that there is no evidence of racial motivation in the police investigation, contradicting social media and student organization claims.

Legal Proceedings
Based on CCTV footage and informant reports, police identified six suspects and have arrested five of them. Following the student’s death, murder charges were added to the case. Police officials stated that initial delays in registering murder charges had sparked criticism from student groups.

Political Reactions
The case has also attracted political attention. Rahul Gandhi, senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, condemned the killing, stating that society must not remain silent when citizens are targeted. He linked such incidents to growing hatred among youth. Akhilesh Yadav, President of the Samajwadi Party, described the attack as the result of a “vicious mindset” that threatens lives. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia termed the incident a severe blow to humanity and expressed solidarity with the victim’s family.

Assurances from the Chief Minister
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami personally contacted Angel Chakma’s father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, expressing grief over the loss. He assured full support from the state government and emphasized that Uttarakhand has always been a safe and welcoming place for students from across India and abroad. The government pledged complete assistance to the bereaved family.