Agartala, Tripura — A candlelight vigil in honor of Angel Chakma drew hundreds of participants in the capital on Sunday, December 28, following the untimely death of the 24-year-old MBA student. Chakma, who hailed from the Nandannagar area of West Tripura district, succumbed to injuries sustained during a violent altercation in Dehradun earlier this month.
On December 9, Chakma and his brother, Michael, found themselves in a confrontation in the Selakui neighborhood when a group of young men directed racial slurs at them. The situation escalated quickly, leading to an attack by six assailants brandishing sharp weapons. CCTV footage from the scene revealed the brothers being surrounded, highlighting a severe escalation from verbal dispute to physical assault. Chakma suffered critical wounds and was hospitalized at Graphic Era Medical College, where he tragically passed away on December 26.
The incident has provoked widespread outrage among local communities and students, prompting the Tipra Indigenous Students Federation to organize the vigil, calling for justice for Chakma and demanding accountability for those responsible. Demonstrators expressed their grief and solidarity, emphasizing the need for a safe environment for all students, especially those from marginalized communities.
Dehradun police have since arrested three suspects in connection with the attack. Two minors alleged to be involved have been placed in a juvenile facility. Another suspect, identified as Yagyaraj Awasthi, is reportedly on the run, with investigators fearing he may have fled to Nepal. Authorities are actively pursuing leads in neighboring regions to apprehend him.
Law enforcement officials are treating the case with utmost seriousness. The evidence gathered, particularly the footage from security cameras, is expected to play a vital role in the prosecution. Dehradun Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, “A student has lost his life under such tragic circumstances, and we will ensure the culpable face the fullest extent of the law.” He also noted that additional safety measures are being implemented in areas where many out-of-state students reside, aiming to restore a sense of security within the community.
Families and friends of Chakma are seeking transparency in the ongoing investigation. The police maintained open lines of communication with Chakma’s family, assuring them of continuous support as they navigate this difficult time. The family held Angel’s last rites on Sunday, marking a somber moment for the grieving community that rallied around them.
As conversations about violence against students and the importance of tolerance continue to unfold, the implications of this tragic event are resonating well beyond the borders of Tripura. Advocates are urging for broader discussions on the need to challenge prejudice and establish safer environments for students from diverse backgrounds.