Uttarakhand Police have preliminarily ruled out a racial motive in the killing of Anjel Chakma, a student from Tripura, who died on December 26 after spending 17 days in hospital following an assault in Dehradun. Police, however, said allegations of racism are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.

Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh, speaking to NDTV, said initial findings do not support claims that the attack was racially or caste-motivated. He noted that the accused come from different backgrounds, including Manipur, Nepal and tribal communities, and said the “jati-suchak” reference mentioned in the FIR does not match the facts gathered so far.

According to police, the incident occurred on December 9 following an altercation during a party involving Anjel Chakma, his brother Michael, and a group of local youths. During the clash, knives and blunt objects were allegedly used. Michael sustained a head injury, while Anjel suffered stab wounds to the neck and abdomen. Anjel later succumbed to his injuries.

Michael Chakma later alleged that racist slurs were used during the attack, a claim that triggered outrage in parts of the Northeast. Police said these allegations were made on December 27 and appear inconsistent with statements and evidence collected in the immediate aftermath of the incident.

Addressing references to the use of the word “Chinese,” SSP Singh said investigators are assessing the context in which it was used, adding that all claims made by the family are being taken into account.

Five people have been arrested so far in connection with the case. Two accused who are minors have been sent to a reform home. One accused, a Nepali national, is absconding. Police have announced a reward of ₹25,000 for information leading to his arrest and said coordination with Nepal Police is underway.

Police said the investigation is continuing and all aspects, including allegations of racism, will be thoroughly examined.