Rahul Gandhi Slams BJP Over ‘Horrific’ Killing of Tripura Student in Dehradun

'Horrific': Rahul condemns Tripura student's killing in Dehradun; accuses BJP of 'normalising' hate

Table of Contents

The brutal death of a young student from Tripura in Dehradun has reignited a national debate on hate, safety, and political accountability. The incident—now widely referred to as the Tripura student killing Dehradun—has drawn sharp political reactions, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi calling it a “horrific hate crime” and pointing fingers at the ruling BJP for allegedly “normalising hate” through toxic rhetoric.

The Tragedy That Shocked the Nation

On December 9, 2025, Anjel Chakma—a 22-year-old student from Tripura studying in Dehradun—was allegedly attacked by a group of individuals near his college campus. He sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a local hospital, where he fought for his life for nearly two weeks before succumbing to his injuries on December 23, 2025 .

The attack sparked immediate outrage among student groups, civil society organizations, and political leaders across the spectrum. Many questioned how such a violent assault could occur in a city known for its educational institutions and relative safety.

Rahul Gandhi’s Strong Condemnation

On December 26, Rahul Gandhi took to social media to express his grief and anger over the Tripura student killing Dehradun. “This is a horrific hate crime,” he wrote. “It is fueled by irresponsible narratives and toxic content that have been normalized by those in power.”

He directly accused the BJP of creating an environment where such violence becomes possible. “When hate is used as a political tool, innocent lives are lost,” Gandhi added, urging authorities to ensure a swift and transparent investigation .

Who Was Anjel Chakma?

Anjel Chakma was not just another student—he was a bright young man from a close-knit Indigenous (Chakma) community in Tripura. Friends and faculty described him as soft-spoken, academically driven, and deeply committed to representing his community on a national stage.

He was pursuing a degree in environmental sciences, with dreams of working on sustainable development projects in the Northeast. His death has left a void not just in his family but across the wider tribal student network in India.

BJP Accusations and Political Fallout

The BJP has denied any role in inciting violence, calling Rahul Gandhi’s remarks “politically motivated” and “baseless.” Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the state government has ordered a high-level probe and promised strict action against the perpetrators.

However, critics argue that inflammatory speeches and divisive social media campaigns—often left unchecked—have created a climate where minority students, especially from the Northeast, feel increasingly vulnerable .

According to data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), crimes motivated by religious, ethnic, or regional bias have seen a worrying uptick in recent years. A 2024 report by the Centre for Equity Studies noted that students from the Northeast are disproportionately targeted in hate-motivated assaults in mainland India .

Common triggers include xenophobic slurs, assumptions about appearance, and misinformation spread through digital platforms. Experts warn that without systemic intervention—both legal and educational—such incidents may become more frequent.

What Actually Happened in Dehradun?

Preliminary police reports indicate that the assault may have stemmed from a verbal altercation that escalated rapidly. Witnesses claim the attackers used derogatory language referencing Anjel’s ethnic identity before physically assaulting him.

As of December 29, 2025, Dehradun police have arrested three individuals and are investigating whether the attack was premeditated or spontaneous. Forensic and CCTV evidence is being analyzed, and the case has been transferred to a special investigation team (SIT) for oversight .

Public Outcry and Calls for Justice

Student unions from across India—including JNU, DU, and Tripura University—have organized candlelight vigils and marches demanding justice for Anjel. Online, the hashtag #JusticeForAnjel has trended nationally, with thousands sharing stories of discrimination faced by Northeastern students.

Human rights organizations like Amnesty India and the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) have called for:

  • Fast-track judicial proceedings
  • Stronger hate crime legislation
  • Mandatory sensitivity training for law enforcement and educators
  • Nationwide anti-racism awareness campaigns in schools and colleges

These demands echo a growing consensus: justice for Anjel must be more than punishment—it must spark systemic change.

Conclusion: A Nation at a Crossroads

The Tripura student killing Dehradun is more than a crime—it’s a mirror reflecting deep societal fractures. Rahul Gandhi’s condemnation has thrust the issue into the political spotlight, but real change will require collective action beyond partisan lines. As India grapples with questions of identity, inclusion, and safety, the life and tragic death of Anjel Chakma must become a turning point—not just a headline.

Sources

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top