A tragic case in Dehradun has reignited debate over racism and discrimination in India after a postgraduate student from Tripura died more than two weeks after being brutally attacked. The 24-year-old, identified as Angel Chakma, had been undergoing treatment for severe stab wounds sustained on December 9 and succumbed to his injuries on December 26.
Police said the assault occurred near a liquor shop in the Selaqui area following an argument. Both the accused and the victim had allegedly consumed alcohol before the altercation turned violent. Investigators believe multiple men were involved in the attack.
Strong Political Reaction
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor called the killing deeply shameful, writing that the crime reflected racial prejudice and social intolerance. He described the attack as more than a tragic crime, saying it represented a “national disgrace” and highlighted how people from the Northeast often face stereotyping and harassment.
Tharoor said the student was subjected to racial slurs before being assaulted, arguing that casual racism had normalized discriminatory behavior. He urged the country to confront its biases and recognize that the Northeast is integral to India’s identity — not an “outsider” region.
The brutal killing of Aniel Chakwa in Uttarakhand is not just a tragedy—it is a national disgrace. A young man from Tripura, a proud Indian, was racially abused, dehumanized with slurs like “Chinese” and “momo,” and ultimately murdered. This was not an isolated act of violence;… pic.twitter.com/WHmA0m7Q0L
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 29, 2025
Call for Accountability and Awareness
The Congress leader emphasized that justice must extend beyond the courtroom, demanding a broader national reckoning. He urged schools, media houses, and institutions to help dismantle prejudices and ensure respectful representation of Northeastern communities.
“This was not an isolated attack,” he said, pointing to a pattern of exclusion and profiling that needs urgent attention.
Investigation and Arrests
Police have registered a case and formed a special team to track down the primary suspect, believed to be a Nepal national currently on the run.
Five individuals — Avinash Negi, Shaurya Rajput, Suraj Khwas, Ayush Badoni, and Sumit — were arrested on December 14 in connection with the case. Authorities continue efforts to apprehend the alleged mastermind.
Meanwhile, Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma announced a ₹10 lakh reward for information leading to the main accused, underscoring the gravity and emotional impact of the case on communities across the Northeast.
As investigations continue, the incident has renewed calls for stronger protections, increased awareness, and zero tolerance toward racial abuse anywhere in the country.