Tripura student case: Uttarakhand govt approves Rs 4.12 lakh aid under SC/ST Atrocities Act, police deny racial angle
Uttarakhand government has approved financial aid to the Angel Chakma's family and immediate financial aid of Rs 4,12,500 has been released to the family under SC/ST Atrocities Act provisions. Meanwhile, Dehradun SSP stated that prima facie there is no racial angle in this case.
Dehradun: On the instructions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, immediate financial assistance of Rs 4,12,500 has been approved for Angel Chakma’s father, Tarun Prasad Chakma. The first instalment was released under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955.
The case was sent to the District Social Welfare Officer Dehradun through the SSP, and after a joint investigation report by the Sub‑Divisional Magistrate and Deputy Superintendent of Police, the district committee approved the aid. A cheqk has already been sent to the family.
CM’s Statement
Calling the murder "a painful incident,” Dhami said Angel’s death was not just the loss of a student but the end of a family’s dreams. He promised that all accused would be swiftly arrested and punished under the law.
Dhami stressed that law and order and student safety are top priorities for the state. He said concrete steps are being taken to ensure the safety of students from the North East and other regions studying in Uttarakhand.
Dhami emphasized that Uttarakhand has always been a safe destination for students from across India and abroad, and this incident is deeply distressing. He assured that the government stands firmly with the grieving family and will provide all possible support.
Police Investigation
Uttarakhand Police have arrested five people in connection with Angel’s death. SSP Ajay Singh said a special team is investigating the case. He rejected claims of deliberate racial targeting, stating that initial findings suggest the confrontation arose from confusion and intoxication after a birthday gathering.
According to police, the accused claimed that certain remarks were directed at each other, not at Angel or his brother Michael. However, the argument escalated into violence, leading to Angel’s fatal injuries.
Father’s Demand for Justice
Tarun Chakma, a BSF jawan posted in Manipur, said his son was "brutally attacked” with knives and blunt objects after being called "Chinese.” He demanded strict punishment for those responsible and justice for his son’s untimely death.
The tragic death of Angel Chakma has shaken Uttarakhand, highlighting issues of racial abuse and student safety. With financial aid released, arrests made, and CM Dhami’s assurance of strict action, the state government has pledged to stand with the family and ensure justice.