Tragic Death of Tripura Student Sparks Outrage Over Safety Concerns
Incident Overview
Agartala, Dec 28: A 24-year-old student from Tripura, Angel Chakma, tragically passed away early Thursday morning after enduring severe injuries for over two weeks due to a violent knife attack in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
This incident has sparked widespread outrage and raised serious concerns regarding the safety of North Eastern students studying in various parts of India.
Details of the Attack
Chakma, who was pursuing an MBA, was reportedly attacked alongside his younger brother on December 9 after they confronted individuals who had directed racial slurs at them. According to his brother, Michael, the attackers, allegedly intoxicated, verbally abused them before launching a physical assault.
According to police reports, Angel suffered multiple stab wounds, which left him in critical condition. He was immediately taken to Graphic Era Hospital and placed in the intensive care unit.
Despite receiving extensive medical care, he succumbed to his injuries on Thursday morning.
Arrests Made and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have arrested five individuals in connection with the attack, identified as Avinash Negi, Shaurya Rajput, Suraj Khawas, Ayush Badoni, and Sumit. The investigation is ongoing, with efforts being made to locate the main suspect, who is currently evading capture.
Family and Community Response
Angel was a resident of Debrampara and originally from Pecharthal in the North Tripura district, where his extended family resides. His body will be transported to Agartala before being taken to Debrampara and then to Pecharthal for the final rites.
His father serves as a BSF constable stationed in Manipur. The family is demanding severe punishment for all those involved in the attack, emphasizing the need for timely justice.
Political and Community Condemnation
The murder has elicited strong condemnation from political figures and student organizations. Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, founder of the TIPRA Motha Party, expressed profound sorrow, noting that while many celebrated Christmas, Tripura and the Chakma community mourned the loss of Angel Chakma. He insisted that justice must be served promptly.
Chakma student organizations have labeled the incident a significant failure of law enforcement and are calling for a thorough and timely investigation. They have also expressed concern that, despite five arrests, the main perpetrator remains at large.