Candlelight Vigil Held as Students and Residents Mourn Death of Tripura Student in Dehradun

Candlelight Vigil Held as Students and Residents Mourn Death of Tripura Student in Dehradun
A quiet sea of candlelight filled Gandhi Park in Dehradun on Monday evening as students, activists and local residents gathered to mourn the death of Anjel Chakma, a young MBA student from Tripura who lost his life following a violent assault earlier this month.

Holding candles and placards calling for justice, the crowd stood in silence before breaking into chants demanding accountability and safety for students from India’s Northeast. Many described the vigil not only as a tribute to Anjel’s life, but as a protest against what they believe was a racially motivated attack.

Anjel, 24, had come to Dehradun to pursue higher education. According to his family and fellow students, he was brutally attacked and left critically injured. After battling for life for several days, he succumbed to his injuries at a hospital, triggering widespread outrage across the country.

“This could have been any of us,” said one student who attended the vigil. “People from the Northeast come here to study with hope. Instead, we live in fear.”

Police have arrested several accused in connection with the case and have said that further investigation is underway. Authorities have assured the victim’s family that strict action will be taken and that justice will be delivered.

The grief in Dehradun was mirrored hundreds of kilometres away in Tripura, where similar candlelight marches and protests were held in Anjel’s hometown and other cities. Students, youth groups and civil society organisations have united in demanding stronger protection for people from the Northeast living and studying outside their home states.

Family members of Anjel Chakma have spoken about the immense pain of losing their son, describing him as hardworking, gentle and full of ambition. “He went to study, not to die,” his father said, echoing a sentiment now being voiced across campuses and streets.

As candles flickered and flowers were laid in silence, Monday’s vigil became more than a mourning ritual. It turned into a collective cry for justice — and a reminder of the urgent need to confront violence, prejudice and intolerance in society.