Family of Tripura Youth Questions Police on Murder Investigation

Dehradun: The family of Anjel Chakma, a 24-year-old from Tripura who was killed in Dehradun earlier this month, has strongly contested the local police's assertion that racial slurs were not a factor in his murder. This dismissal has ignited a heated debate regarding the treatment of racial and ethnic issues in the investigation. Momen Chakma, Anjel's uncle, expressed frustration at what he termed the police's premature conclusions. He noted that the police are seemingly disregarding the testimony of Anjel's brother, Michael Chakma, who witnessed the attack.

'Michael is not just a family member; he is the complainant in this case,' Momen Chakma stated. 'He was present during the incident, and it unfolded within a matter of minutes. How could anyone expect bystanders to capture such a violent act on film?' he added, emphasising the need for the police to take the eyewitness account seriously.

As the investigation progresses, Dehradun Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajai Singh responded to the family's concerns. He clarified that Michael's initial complaint referenced 'casteist slurs' but did not mention racial slurs. 'The family remained in Dehradun until December 27 but did not communicate any claims regarding racial slurs to the police. If they have further information, we are willing to incorporate it into our investigation,' Singh stated.

The police have been collecting evidence to construct a solid case prior to filing formal charges. In their preliminary findings, the Dehradun police indicated that the ethnic backgrounds of some of the accused—who come from regions such as Manipur and Nepal—suggested a lack of racial motivation behind the attack. This reasoning has provoked backlash from members of civil society, particularly those representing the North-Eastern community, who argue that it oversimplifies the complex interplay of ethnic and linguistic identities in the region.

Anjel Chakma and his younger brother Michael were reportedly attacked by a group of six individuals following an altercation over their disruptive behaviour. According to statements from Michael and other family members, the attackers hurled racial epithets—including terms like 'chinki', 'Chinese', and 'momo'—before the situation escalated into violence. While Michael sustained injuries, Anjel succumbed to his wounds shortly after.

'It's not merely about a single word or insult,' Momen Chakma remarked. 'It's about whether our voices hold any weight when we express our grievances.' The family's plea for recognition of their experience highlights the broader societal issues surrounding discrimination and violence based on race and ethnicity.

The ongoing investigation will aim to address these complex issues, with the police stating their commitment to a thorough examination of the case. However, the tension between the family and law enforcement raises important questions about the handling of racial dynamics in criminal investigations, particularly in a multicultural society such as India. In light of the family's allegations and the police's response, the case has attracted significant public and media attention, underscoring the importance of sensitivity in addressing matters of race and identity.