Pune: Over 200 Gather for Vigil Seeking Justice for Angel Chakma; NECOP Demands Action Against Alleged Hate Crime
Pune, 3rd January 2026: A solemn candlelight vigil organized by the Northeast Community Organisation Pune (NECOP) witnessed a strong turnout on Saturday evening, as more than 200 members of the Northeastern community gathered at Makhan Chowk, Old Sangvi. The crowd stood in solidarity to honor the memory of Angel Chakma, a 24-year-old MBA student from Tripura, who died after being assaulted in Uttarakhand and to demand justice following his death from an alleged racially motivated assault.
The event served as a powerful display of unity, bringing together residents representing all eight Northeastern states—Tripura, Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. While the gathering was a tribute to Chakma’s life, it was principally a collective call for accountability.
Leaders from various NECOP State Units addressed the attendees, emphasizing that the legal response to this tragedy must set a precedent. A shared message resonated throughout the speeches: violence and discrimination must never be overlooked.
NECOP President Singam Horam delivered a strong condemnation of the incident. “Justice cannot be selective. Justice cannot wait. Justice cannot depend on whose life was taken,” Horam stated to the crowd, many of whom held candles in silence. “When justice is delayed, injustice becomes normalized.”
The vigil was conducted in a disciplined and non-violent manner. Organizers acknowledged the cooperation of the Sangvi Police, noting that their presence ensured smooth coordination and safety throughout the event.
Concluding the gathering, NECOP reiterated its commitment to stand with the bereaved family and continue advocating for transparency. Organizers emphasized that the vigil reflected not only the community’s grief but also their unified resolve to seek dignity, safety, and justice for Angel Chakma.
