The recent killing of Anjel Chakma, a 24-year-old student from Tripura, in Dehradun has sparked outrage and condemnation, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi calling it a "horrific hate crime". Chakma was attacked on December 9 in Dehradun after objecting to alleged racial slurs, and he succumbed to his injuries on December 26.

Gandhi has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "normalizing" hate, suggesting that the incident is a result of a prolonged atmosphere of prejudice. In a social media post, Gandhi stated that hate "doesn't appear overnight" and is being "fed daily" through "toxic content and irresponsible narratives," particularly to the youth. He emphasized that India is built on respect and unity, not fear and abuse, and urged reflection on what the country is becoming.

The Congress party has also questioned the delay in registering the First Information Report (FIR) in the case, alleging that the 12-day delay provided ample time for the main accused to flee. They are demanding the immediate arrest of the absconding suspect. Assam Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi highlighted the issue of prejudice faced by people from the Northeast, citing instances of racial slurs and discrimination. He criticized the BJP for failing to celebrate the country's diversity and focusing on a single identity.

Following the incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami assured Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha that all those responsible for the murder would be arrested and promised strict action against the perpetrators. Dhami also spoke with Anjel's father, Tarun Prasad Chakma, offering support and assistance. Police have arrested five accused in the case, while one suspect, a Nepalese national, is believed to have fled to Nepal, and a reward has been announced for his capture.

The killing has triggered widespread protests, including a candle march organized by the Tipra Indigenous Students' Federation (TISF) in New Delhi, demanding justice for Anjel Chakma. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has stated that his Uttarakhand counterpart has assured him that justice will be delivered in the case.

The incident underscores the concerns about racial discrimination and hate crimes faced by people from the Northeast in other parts of India. It has also raised questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement and the need for greater awareness and sensitivity towards cultural diversity.