The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has acknowledged the tragic death of 24-year-old Angel Chakma, a student from Tripura, in Dehradun. Angel was involved in an altercation with Suraj Khawas and his friends at Selakui market on December 9, resulting in a fatal attack with knives and brass knuckles. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Angel succumbed to his injuries on December 26.
A notice has been issued by a Bench led by Member Priyank Kanoongo to the State Government, seeking a comprehensive report on the actions taken in response to the incident. Angel’s father, Tarun Chakma, a Border Security Force (BSF) officer in Manipur, alleged that his son faced racial slurs during the assault, being referred to as “Chinese” by the attackers.
The NHRC has directed the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police in Uttarakhand to prioritize the safety of Northeastern students in the state. The authorities are expected to provide details on the investigation, efforts to apprehend the accused, and preventive measures against similar incidents. Five out of the six suspects involved in the December 9 attack have been apprehended, with one individual from Nepal still evading capture.
Uttarakhand Police have arrested five of the six suspects following a complaint filed by Michael Chakma on December 12. Charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) were filed, including those related to bodily harm, criminal intimidation, and attempted murder. Subsequently, additional charges of murder and joint liability were added after Angel’s demise. Among the detained individuals are Suraj Khawas, Avinash Negi, and Sumit.
Angel Chakma, a final-year MBA student at a Dehradun university, tragically lost his life in the violent altercation.
