By Admin 
The case of death of Tripura student Angel Chakma in Dehradun is in the headlines. This incident took place on December 9 in Selaqui area of Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. Angel Chakma was a final year MBA student in a private university. He had gone to the market with his younger brother Michael. Meanwhile, a group of six youths reached there and started flirting with Michael.
How did the fight start?
According to Angel’s father Tarun Chakma, the accused first pushed Michael. When Angel protested, the accused made racial remarks at him. They were calling her ‘Chinese’ and ‘Chinese Momo’. Angel clearly said that he was an Indian, but even after this the accused attacked him.
How serious was the attack?
It is alleged that Angel was attacked with a knife, iron weapon and bracelet. He suffered serious injuries on his neck and back. After the attack, he was immediately taken to the hospital, where his condition was very critical. Angel struggled for life in the hospital for 17 days and finally died on 26 December. The father says that his neck was broken in the attack.
Why were questions raised on the role of police?
The family alleges that the police did not register the case immediately after the incident. Tarun Chakma says that the FIR was registered after two to three days and that too after pressure from student organizations and senior officials. However, police say that investigation was started after receiving the complaint.
What action has been taken so far?
According to the police, six people were identified in this case. Five of them have been arrested, of which two are minors. One accused is said to be a resident of Nepal, who is absconding. A reward of Rs 25,000 has been kept for his arrest and a police team has been sent to Nepal.
Was it a racial attack or a mutual fight?
The victim’s family and many organizations say that this was a clear racial attack, as Angel was abused on the basis of her appearance and identity. The police claim that this matter is related to mutual feud and the racial angle has not been confirmed. This is the reason why this case has become more sensitive.
What was the reaction of the leaders and governments?
The Chief Ministers of Uttarakhand, Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya have expressed grief over this incident. Everyone has said that strict action will be taken against the culprits. The Uttarakhand government has assured that the absconding accused will be arrested soon and no one will be kept above the law.
What is the demand of the family?
Angel’s father says that he has lost his son and now he just wants justice. The family wants that this case should be seen as racial violence and all the culprits should be given the harshest punishment.