Tripura student murder: Uttarakhand Police arrest most accused, hunt on for one

New Delhi: The Uttarakhand Police on Sunday said swift action has been taken in the murder of Tripura student Angel Chakma, with most of the accused arrested and a manhunt underway to nab the remaining suspect.

'One accused absconding'

Addressing the media, Dr V Murugesan, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), said all the criminals involved in the incident have been identified and arrested, barring one who is still absconding. "One accused is at large. All efforts are being made to apprehend him. A reward of Rs 25,000 has been announced and multiple teams have been formed,” he said.

According to the police, a dispute at a restaurant escalated into a fight, during which the victim was badly injured. "The victim unfortunately succumbed to his injuries during treatment,” Murugesan said, describing the incident as deeply unfortunate.

The ADGP added that the chief minister has issued clear instructions to all District Superintendents of Police to ensure the safety and security of people from the northeastern states who are living, working or studying in Uttarakhand. "Strict action will be taken against those who violate the law, disrupt public order or engage in criminal activities,” he said.

Murugesan also said he has been in touch with senior police officers from Tripura to coordinate further action. "Whatever is necessary will be done,” he said.

Anjel and his younger brother were allegedly confronted by a group of men who, according to eyewitnesses, hurled racial slurs and referred to them as "Chinese.” Friends said Anjel did not respond aggressively and instead questioned the abuse. "We are not Chinese. We are Indians. What proof do we need to show that?” he was quoted as saying.

Soon after, the confrontation reportedly turned violent. The attackers allegedly assaulted the two brothers with knives while continuing the verbal abuse. Anjel sustained critical injuries to his neck and spine, while his younger brother Michael was also wounded and is currently in serious condition. A close friend who remained at the hospital throughout Anjel’s treatment said he was deeply shaken by the brutality of the attack.

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Anjel’s body was flown to Agartala on Saturday for last rites. His death has triggered widespread grief and anger in Tripura and other northeastern states. Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma, chairman of the Tipra Motha Party, extended support to the family, assisting with medical expenses and funeral arrangements.

The incident has also prompted protests by student groups across the northeast, who are demanding a national law to address racial hate crimes. In Dehradun, student organisations have begun speaking out as well, calling for greater safety, dignity and equal treatment for students from all regions of the country.