The mortal remains of renowned Manipuri musician Chongtham Vikram Singh, who allegedly died after being assaulted in Delhi on September 7, were brought to Imphal on Wednesday. Family members, friends, fellow musicians and well-wishers gathered at Imphal International Airport to receive his body.
The atmosphere at the airport was sombre as mourners waited for the arrival of the mortal remains. Several relatives and supporters broke down in tears as the body was brought home.
According to Delhi Police, Singh was allegedly assaulted by a group of men after he objected to loud noise and drinking outside his residence in Kilokari village. A case was registered at Sunlight Colony Police Station, and several people have been arrested in connection with the incident. Police have also detained a minor.
Singh had been living in Kilokari for several years. A preliminary inquiry found that he had gone downstairs after objecting to a group of men allegedly creating a disturbance outside his residence. He was subsequently assaulted with blows and punches. His son, Yaiphaba, rushed him to Holy Family Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
After receiving his brother’s body, Chongtham Vivek said Singh’s death was a profound loss not only for the family but also for Manipur and the wider music fraternity. He demanded strict punishment for those responsible and urged the authorities to complete the investigation and legal proceedings swiftly.
The incident has triggered widespread anger and concern in Manipur and across the Northeast, with people raising questions over alleged racial discrimination and violence faced by people from the region in other parts of the country.
Renowned Manipuri singer Sadananda Hamom, who attended the tribute ceremony at Imphal International Airport, demanded stringent punishment, including capital punishment, for those responsible for Singh’s alleged killing.
Describing Vikram as a “very loveable and down-to-earth person”, Hamom said his death following the assault was deeply unfortunate. He said the incident had once again highlighted concerns over alleged racial discrimination against people from the Northeast in Delhi.
Hamom called for greater awareness about the Northeast, its geography, people and diverse cultures. He stressed that people across the country should understand that the Northeast is an integral part of India.
Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also raised the issue on September 9, questioning the Union Home Ministry and Delhi Police over what he described as growing lawlessness, particularly affecting people from the Northeast. He demanded a swift and thorough investigation and later spoke with Singh’s brother to convey his condolences.
Congress leader Pawan Khera said Gandhi expressed solidarity with the bereaved family and assured them that their demand for justice would not go unheard.
The North East Students Society of Delhi University also expressed grief over Singh’s death and described him as a respected Manipuri musician. The organisation said the incident had renewed concerns over the safety and security of people from the Northeast living in Delhi.
Singh’s mortal remains will be taken to his residence at Thangmeiband Lourungpurel in Imphal West, where his last rites will be performed.
As demands for justice continue, members of the music fraternity and civil society have called for an end to violence and discrimination against people from the Northeast.
