Uttarakhand Police Rule Out Racial Angle in Dehradun Student Killing, Probe Ongoing
Dehradun: The Uttarakhand Police on Monday said that no evidence has emerged so far to suggest that the killing of a 24-year-old student from Tripura in Dehradun was racially motivated, even as investigations continue and one accused remains absconding.
Angel Chakma, a student, died last week following an attack near a liquor shop in the city. The incident triggered outrage after allegations surfaced that Chakma was targeted with racial slurs and referred to as “Chinese” before being assaulted.
Addressing the allegations, investigating officer PD Bhatt said that claims linking the murder to racism were “unfounded at this stage.” “We have found no evidence so far to link the incident with racism. There is no basis for such allegations,” Bhatt stated, adding that one of the five arrested accused is from Manipur, which further weakens the racial motive theory.
According to police, the incident occurred near a liquor shop where Suraj, one of the accused, was celebrating his son’s birthday. Chakma and his brother Michael had also visited the shop to purchase liquor. An argument reportedly broke out between the two groups, which escalated into a violent confrontation.
Michael Chakma, however, has alleged that the attack occurred when they were out buying groceries on December 9 and claimed that a group of intoxicated individuals used racial slurs before stabbing Angel. Angel was rushed to hospital but succumbed to his injuries on December 26.
Police said a sixth accused, a Nepalese national, is currently absconding. “Our teams are in Nepal and efforts are on to arrest him soon,” Bhatt said. Investigators added that it is still unclear who inflicted the fatal stab wound, with arrested accused claiming that the absconder was responsible.
Officials confirmed that two of the five arrested accused are minors and none have prior criminal records. Further investigation is underway.
Our Thoughts
The case underscores the importance of a thorough, evidence-based investigation, especially when allegations of racial violence surface. While police have ruled out a racial angle for now, transparency and timely conclusions will be crucial to address public concerns and ensure justice for the victim and his family.