Agartala, 30th December, 2025: More than three weeks after Tripura student Angel Chakma was fatally attacked in Dehradun, the case has drawn the attention of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), even as the prime accused continues to evade arrest. Uttarakhand Police are still searching for Yagyaraj Awasthi of Nepal’s Kanchanpur district, despite intensifying efforts and announcing a reward of ₹25,000 for information leading to his arrest.
The investigation has taken a serious turn after Angel succumbed to his injuries on December 26, leading police to upgrade the charges to murder. Angel had been battling for his life since the December 9 assault at Selakui market, where he and his younger brother Michael were allegedly confronted by Suraj Khawas and his associates. According to police accounts, the altercation quickly escalated into violence, with Angel suffering grievous injuries inflicted by knives and brass knuckles.
Taking suo motu cognisance of the incident, the NHRC has sought answers from the Uttarakhand government regarding the safety and protection of students from the Northeastern states studying in the state. Citing persistent concerns over their vulnerability, the Commission has called for a detailed status report on the case.
An NHRC bench headed by Member Priyank Kanoongo has asked the state authorities to inform the Commission about the action taken against the accused, the current status of the investigation, and the preventive measures being adopted to avert similar incidents. The Commission has also directed the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police to accord priority to the safety of Northeastern students in Uttarakhand.
The case has reignited debate over the security of migrant students, particularly those belonging to ethnic minority communities, across the country. Meanwhile, both the Uttarakhand and Tripura governments have announced financial assistance to support the bereaved family of Angel Chakma, as demands for justice continue to grow.
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