Rising Lynching Incidents Raise Alarms Over Safety of Migrants in India
A series of violent incidents across different Indian states within a short span has brought renewed attention to the growing concerns of lawlessness, intolerance, and hostility toward migrants and outsiders. These cases have triggered national debate over social prejudice, misinformation, and the safety of people moving across states for education or work.
Pattern of Violence Across States
In less than a month, four separate incidents of mob violence were reported from different parts of the country. The victims included migrant workers and students, highlighting a disturbing pattern of mistrust and fear toward people perceived as outsiders.
The most recent cases involved individuals from Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Tripura, and Assam. Each incident had different circumstances, yet all reflected a growing intolerance fueled by suspicion, misinformation, and, in some cases, superstition.
Death of Student in Dehradun Sparks Outrage
One of the most shocking cases involved 24-year-old Anjel Chakma, a final-year MBA student in Dehradun. Son of a Border Security Force personnel, Anjel had recently secured a job and was preparing to begin his professional career.
On December 9, Anjel and his brother were reportedly confronted in a local market by a group of men who allegedly hurled racial insults at them. According to the family, Anjel tried to explain that he was an Indian citizen and not a foreigner. The situation escalated, and he was attacked with sharp objects. After battling for life for over two weeks, he succumbed to his injuries on December 26.
Conflicting Versions from Authorities
While the victim’s family maintains that racial abuse led to the attack, local police have claimed that the incident arose from a verbal altercation that spiraled out of control. Officials stated that preliminary investigations did not indicate a racial motive.
However, the family has rejected this explanation, stating that the attackers used racial slurs before the assault. Following public pressure, the National Human Rights Commission stepped in and sought a detailed report from local authorities.
Other Incidents Raise Deeper Concerns
Just days before the Dehradun case, a migrant worker from West Bengal was lynched in Odisha, while another migrant from Chhattisgarh was killed in Kerala. In Assam, a couple was burnt alive after being accused of practicing witchcraft, pointing to the role of superstition in mob violence.
These incidents collectively highlight a worrying trend of mob justice, where suspicion and fear overpower law enforcement and due process.
Growing Fear Among Migrant Communities
Activists and civil rights groups have expressed concern that such attacks are becoming more frequent and are often linked to rising xenophobia and misinformation. Many believe that political rhetoric and social media narratives contribute to the perception of outsiders as threats.
Migrant workers and students, who form a significant part of India’s workforce and academic community, are increasingly feeling unsafe in unfamiliar regions.
Call for Accountability and Awareness
Experts stress the need for stricter law enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and accountability to prevent such incidents. They argue that social harmony can only be preserved through education, responsible leadership, and swift justice.
The recent cases serve as a stark reminder that intolerance and misinformation can have deadly consequences if left unchecked.
