BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 30th December 2025: More than three weeks after the fatal assault on Tripura student Angel Chakma in Dehradun, Uttarakhand Police continue their search for the prime accused, Yagyaraj Awasthi of Nepal’s Kanchanpur district, who remains absconding. Authorities have escalated charges to murder and announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for information leading to his arrest.
The incident has drawn national attention, with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) stepping in to examine broader concerns about the safety of Northeastern students in Uttarakhand. Acting suo motu, the NHRC has asked the state government to provide a detailed report on the investigation and outline preventive measures in place. A bench led by Member Priyank Kanoongo has demanded updates on the probe, accountability for the accused, and assurances that safeguards will be strengthened to prevent recurrence.
The Commission has further directed the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to prioritize the protection of Northeastern students, highlighting repeated complaints of vulnerability faced by migrant communities.
Angel was attacked on December 9 at Selakui market after an altercation involving Suraj Khawas and associates. He sustained severe injuries from knives and brass knuckles, later succumbing on December 26. Both Uttarakhand and Tripura governments have extended financial assistance to his family.
