Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday described the killing of a Tripura student in Uttarakhand’s Dehradun as a “horrific hate crime.” He alleged that such incidents are the result of hate being systematically normalised in society under the BJP-led government.

The victim, 24-year-old Angel Chakma from Nandannagar in West Tripura district, was allegedly attacked by a group of six individuals on December 9. The assault reportedly took place after Chakma objected to a racial slur. He sustained serious injuries and later succumbed during treatment on December 26.

In a post on social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi said hate does not emerge overnight but is cultivated over time. He accused the ruling BJP of feeding toxic narratives, particularly among the youth, and allowing divisive rhetoric to become socially acceptable.

Also Read: Shashi Tharoor Condemns Racist Killing of Tripura Student in Dehradun

Gandhi stressed that India’s foundation lies in unity, respect, and diversity, not fear or abuse. He warned against becoming a society that ignores violence against fellow citizens and called for collective reflection on the direction the country is heading.

Expressing solidarity, Gandhi said his thoughts were with the Chakma family, as well as the people of Tripura and the Northeast. He reiterated that they are an integral part of India’s social and cultural fabric and deserve dignity and safety.

Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha stated that Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has assured strict action and the arrest of all those responsible. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with thousands of students in Tripura holding a candle march under the banner of the Tipra Indigenous Students’ Federation, demanding justice for Angel Chakma.

Also Read: Agartala Candle March Seeks Justice for Tripura Student Killed in Dehradun Attack