Pro-Inner Line Permit (ILP) supporters in Meghalaya on Monday demanded the enactment of a national anti-racism law and fast-track justice following the brutal murder of a 24-year-old MBA student from Tripura, calling the incident part of a recurring pattern of racial violence against people from the North East. In a statement, the Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO) expressed deep condolences and anger over the death of Anjel Chakma, who succumbed to his injuries on December 26 following an assault in Dehradun. CoMSO leader Roykupar Synrem said such crimes were not isolated and reflected systemic prejudice faced by people from the region in cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi and Dehradun.
Synrem said such crimes were not isolated incidents but reflected deep-rooted prejudice faced by people from the Northeast in cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi, and Dehradun. Referring to Chakma’s reported last words — “We are not Chinese, we are Indians” — Synrem said the attack was a stark indictment of the racial bias and social exclusion experienced by Northeastern students and professionals outside the region. Standing in solidarity with the people of Tripura and the wider Northeast, the pro-ILP supporters urged the Uttarakhand government and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure a fast-track trial in the case.
While acknowledging reports that five suspects have been apprehended, they demanded the immediate arrest of the prime accused, warning that delays could lead to further emboldening of such crimes. The activists also called on the Centre to direct all state governments to establish dedicated 24×7 North East Helplines and specialised police cells in major cities to ensure the safety of students and working professionals from the region. They further stressed that educational institutions and local administrations must be held accountable for failing to provide a safe and inclusive environment.