‘Papa, take VRS, I am here’: Angel Chakma wanted posting in Guwahati to stay close; family grieves broken promises
The murder of Tripura student Angel Chakma in Dehradun has left his family shattered. Just after landing his first job, Angel had asked his father to take voluntary retirement, promising to take care of the family. He also wanted to stay close to his family wanting a posting in Guwahati. His dream of supporting them remained unfulfilled.
Dehradun: Angel Chakma, a 24‑year‑old student from Tripura, had a life filled with dreams, responsibilities, and devotion to his family. His father, a head constable in the Border Security Force (BSF), raised him across different states due to frequent transfers. Those experiences taught Angel to adapt quickly and shaped him into a calm, friendly, and thoughtful young man.
Angel’s family recalls how he often spoke about taking responsibility for them. After securing his first job, he told his father, "Papa, you take VRS, I am here.” He wanted his father to rest after years of service. Sadly, his dream never came true.
Attack in Dehradun
Earlier this month, Angel was allegedly racially assaulted in Dehradun. Police say he was attacked by a group of six people, leaving him seriously injured. Despite treatment, he succumbed to his injuries. Five accused, including two minors, have been arrested, while one remains absconding.
The incident sparked outrage among students and residents of the Northeast, raising serious questions about racially motivated violence and the safety of young people studying outside their home states.
Family’s joy turned to grief
Just weeks before the attack, Angel had given his family good news. He had landed his first job through campus placement at a French multinational company. His parents and relatives were overjoyed. He told his father to take voluntary retirement, promising to shoulder the family’s
responsibilities.
Angel had already begun planning for a better life. He wanted to take a posting in Guwahati or Kolkata to be closer to Tripura. He told his mother to come live with him once he was settled. He also promised to support his younger brother Michael’s higher education, easing the financial burden on his father.
Wise beyond his years
Angel’s maternal uncle, Momen Chakma, says Angel was wise beyond his age. Growing up in different states gave him maturity and resilience. He never got into fights and preferred spending his free time traveling and exploring new places.
His love for nature and mountains drew him to Uttarakhand. He often spoke about trekking routes and inspired his younger brother Michael to study in Dehradun, encouraging him to explore the region alongside his studies.
Plans for a trek that never happened
Angel and Michael had planned to go on the Chandrashila trek on December 22, after Michael’s exams. Angel had researched the route, checked the weather, and even ordered new trekking boots. He was excited to spend time with his brother in the mountains.
But fate intervened. Angel was attacked before the trek could happen. The boots arrived at his home a day after the assault. His uncle says they still lie there, unworn, a silent reminder of his unfulfilled dreams and the family’s heartbreak.
Outrage and demand for justice
The attack has triggered anger across Uttarakhand and the Northeast. Student organizations have called it a hate crime and demanded strict punishment for the culprits. Angel’s family, devastated by the loss, continues to demand justice for their son.
Police maintain that the incident was the result of a sudden altercation, not a racially motivated attack. However, Angel’s brother Michael insists racial slurs were used before the assault. The case remains under investigation, with one accused still absconding.