A routine grocery trip turned into a deadly tragedy for a young MBA student from Tripura, highlighting uncomfortable truths about prejudice and violence in society. 24-year-old Anjel Chakma, who had come to Dehradun to study and build a future, died on December 26 after being brutally attacked in what many are calling a racially charged assault.
Friends and family describe Anjel as a calm, bright young man who was looking forward to his final semester and a promising career after having already secured a job with a multinational company. His life was cut short after he stood up to attackers who hurled derogatory names like “Chinese” and “momo” at him and his younger brother terms rooted in ignorance and prejudice.
The incident
- On December 9, Anjel and his brother were stopped by a group of six youths in the Selaqui area of Dehradun.
- The assailants allegedly used racial slurs such as “Chinki,” “Chinese” and “momo” rather than respecting his Indian identity.
- When Anjel calmly replied that he was Indian and not “Chinese,” the situation escalated into violence.
- He was attacked with knives and blunt objects, and later succumbed to his injuries after weeks in hospital.
A life full of promise
- Anjel was an MBA student with strong academic records and a kind personality.
- He had just secured a job with a French multinational and was excited about his future.
- His family, including his father, a Border Security Force jawan is devastated by the loss
Response and investigation
- Five people have been arrested in connection with the attack, though one main suspect remains absconding.
- Authorities have claimed the attack wasn’t racially motivated, framing it as a personal dispute, but the victim’s family and many activists strongly disagree.
- The National Human Rights Commission has taken notice and asked local authorities to report on the case.
Wider reactions
- Voices across the country, including political and civil society leaders, have expressed shock and labelled the incident a national disgrace.
- Students and community groups have protested, demanding justice and stronger protection against hate-based violence
Conclusion:
Anjel’s death has shaken many, not just in his home state of Tripura but across the nation. His calm assertion of identity; “We are Indians” before the attack is now remembered as a heartbreaking call for unity and dignity. The tragedy raises uncomfortable questions about how far society still has to go in addressing prejudice, tolerance, and respect for diversity. It is a stark reminder that being born in one country should never make someone a target on its soil.
