What Sparked the Candle March for Anjel Chakma? A Call for Justice Amidst Rising Hate

In a poignant display of solidarity, the National Students' Union of India organized a candle march in New Delhi to demand justice for Anjel Chakma, a student from the Northeast who was brutally attacked. Protesters accused the BJP-RSS of fostering a culture of hate that contributed to his death. Led by NSUI president Varun Choudhary, the gathering criticized the Uttarakhand government's delayed response in addressing the incident. The call for immediate action against the accused and an inquiry into the FIR filing delay underscores the growing concern over hate crimes in India. As the investigation unfolds, the community seeks accountability and justice for Chakma.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 30, 2025, 21:14 IST

Candlelight Vigil Demands Justice for Anjel Chakma

New Delhi: A candlelight march was organized by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) at Jantar Mantar on Tuesday, advocating for justice for Anjel Chakma. The group accused the BJP-RSS of creating a hostile environment that contributed to his tragic death.

NSUI's national president, Varun Choudhary, led the demonstration, highlighting that Chakma, a student from the Northeast, suffered a brutal attack in Dehradun after being subjected to racial slurs.

Protesters criticized the BJP-led Uttarakhand government for its inaction, claiming that the authorities allowed the suspects to evade justice for several days before an FIR was filed.

During the rally, Choudhary stated, "Anjel Chakma was a victim of hate, and the BJP government's silence is a betrayal of justice. Ignoring a brutal assault for 20 days is not governance; it is complicity."

Uday Bhanu Chib, the national president of the Indian Youth Congress (IYC), echoed these sentiments, asserting that Chakma's last words were, "I am an Indian; I am not Chinese."

Chib condemned the BJP-RSS for perpetuating hatred in the nation, claiming that criminals are being shielded while justice is being stifled.

He called for the immediate apprehension of the fleeing suspects, an investigation into the delay in filing the FIR, and the strictest penalties for those involved, warning that political protection of hate crimes undermines India's constitutional integrity.

Reports indicate that Anjel Chakma and his brother, Michael, were involved in a dispute on December 9 in Dehradun with local individuals and another person from the Northeast, who allegedly hurled racial insults.

When the brothers protested, a violent confrontation ensued, during which they were reportedly attacked with knives and blunt objects.

As of Tuesday, Dehradun police stated that their investigation has not uncovered any evidence supporting claims of racial abuse.