Tripura Student Angel Chakma Dies After Racist Attack In Dehradun
The death of Tripura student Angel Chakma after a racist attack in Dehradun has triggered anger and protests across Northeast India.
Angel Chakma, a 24-year-old student from Tripura, tragically lost his life after a brutal attack in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Studying MBA in Dehradun, Angel was known by friends as a calm and friendly person who was focused on building a good future. Everything changed on the night of 9 December 2025 in the Selaqui area, where an argument turned violent after racial abuse was directed at Angel and his younger brother, Michael.
Police said Angel and Michael were at a canteen near a liquor shop, where a group of men, including Suraj Khwas, Avinash Negi, and Sumit, allegedly hurled racial slurs at them. Reports say the brothers later went to a market to buy groceries when the group, who were intoxicated, began calling them “Chinese,” “chinki,” and “momo.” Angel stood his ground peacefully, saying, “I am an Indian. I am not Chinese,” before the men attacked with iron rods, knives, and a ‘kadaa’.
Angel suffered severe head, neck, and spine injuries. A delayed police report on 12 December caused further distress for the family. Angel fought for his life in the hospital, with his father, a BSF constable, by his side, but he passed away on 26 December.
Murder charges were added, and five of the six accused have been arrested. The main accused, Yagya Awasthi, believed to be a Nepal national, is still absconding. Protests, candle marches, and public outrage have spread across Northeast India. Many are now calling for a national law against racial hate crimes to ensure safety and dignity for all students.
