Guwahati, Dec 31: The death of 24-year-old Anjel Chakma has left a family’s dreams in ruins, cutting short a life that had only just begun to promise stability and hope.
Anjel, a native of Tripura, had recently secured a job through campus placement at a French multinational company. It was a moment of pride for the family — and the beginning of plans to ease the burdens his parents had carried for years.
“He had big dreams for his family,” said his maternal uncle, Momen Chakma. “After getting the job, he told his father it was time to take rest — that he had done enough for the family.”
Anjel grew up moving across states as his father served as a head constable with the Border Security Force. The frequent relocations shaped his childhood, his uncle said, making him adaptable, grounded and acutely aware of life’s uncertainties from an early age.
“He was a bright student from childhood — calm, friendly and non-confrontational,” Momen recalled. “The family had many expectations from him. Now everything has shattered.”
With his first salary in sight, Anjel had begun planning a more settled future. He spoke of seeking a posting in Guwahati or Kolkata so he could stay closer to Tripura, and had asked his mother to be ready to move in with him once he settled.
“He wanted to take responsibility at home,” Momen said. “He promised to support the family financially and help fund his younger brother Michael’s higher studies, so his father would not have to struggle anymore. I have seen him grow up in front of us.”
Instead, Anjel — who had gone to Dehradun for his studies — returned home in a coffin.
Earlier this month, Anjel was assaulted in Dehradun in what police have described as an alleged racist attack. According to the family, he was attacked by a group of six individuals and sustained critical injuries. He later succumbed to his wounds in hospital.
Police have arrested five of the accused, including two juveniles, while one accused was absconding at the time, Momen said adding investigation is ongoing and further arrests are likely.
The tragedy has also shattered a simple plan the brothers had made together. “They had planned a trek to Chandrashila on December 22, after Michael’s examinations,” Momen said. “They never imagined that Anjel would never return from Dehradun.”
The family is now seeking justice, struggling to come to terms with the loss of a son who had dreamed of giving them rest, dignity and a better future.
