A Senseless Act of Violence: The Tragic Death of Anjel Chakma
In a chilling reminder of the persisting issue of racial prejudice in India, a young student from Tripura named Anjel Chakma lost his life following a brutal attack in Uttarakhand. His tragic demise on Friday, December 24, 2025, has left his family, friends, and the entire Northeast community in shock and mourning.
The Fateful Encounter
On the evening of December 9, 2025, Anjel Chakma, a final-year MBA student at Jigyasa University in Dehradun, and his younger brother, Michael Chakma, were out to purchase groceries in Selaqui, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Little did they know that this seemingly ordinary errand would turn into a horrifying ordeal.
As reported by local student Binod Chakma, the brothers were subjected to racial slurs and verbal abuse by a group of inebriated assailants based on their appearance. The slurs included derogatory terms such as Nepali, Chinese, Chinki, and momos, accompanied by local abuses and invectives.
The Attack and its Aftermath
When the brothers protested against the harassment, the assailants retaliated with physical assault, leaving both of them injured. Michael was struck on the head with a kada, while Anjel was brutally stabbed in the neck and stomach. Anjel was rushed to the ICU at Graphic Era Hospital, Dehradun, where he fought for his life for several weeks before succumbing to his injuries on Friday, December 24, 2025.
Police have reportedly arrested five individuals in connection with the case, including Avinash Negi, Shaurya Rajput, Suraj Khawas, Ayush Badoni, and Sumit. The attackers were allegedly members of influential families, according to sources.
A Call for Justice
Tipra Motha Party supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarman condemned the attack and expressed his condolences to the bereaved family. "While the world was celebrating Christmas, we lost Anjel Chakma in the early hours. My deepest condolences to all the friends and family members. We have lost Anjel Chakma, but his murderers are yet to be convicted we demand justice for the departed soul," Debbarman wrote.
Implications and Reflections
The tragic death of Anjel Chakma serves as a stark reminder that racism and prejudice continue to be prevalent issues in India, particularly in areas with diverse populations. This incident highlights the need for increased awareness, education, and action to combat such discrimination and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their ethnicity or origin.
In the North East region, where various ethnic groups coexist, this incident resonates deeply. It underscores the importance of fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect, and understanding to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
As we mourn the loss of Anjel Chakma, let us also remember his life and the lessons it teaches us. Let us stand together against racial prejudice and strive for a more equitable, harmonious, and inclusive society.