A wave of sorrow swept through Kangpokpi town on Thursday night as thousands gathered to welcome home the mortal remains of Lamnunthem Singson, affectionately known as Neonu, who tragically lost her life in the recent Air India crash. The 26-year-old’s body arrived at 9:20 PM, escorted with honour and deep emotion from Dimapur Airport to her hometown in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district. As her funeral convoy travelled along National Highway-2, residents formed a human chain that stretched several kilometres—an extraordinary show of solidarity and collective grief. Men, women, and children of all ages stood silently with lit candles, lining the roads from downtown Kangpokpi all the way to Ngambom Veng, Ward No. 8, where Neonu lived. The candlelight procession was organised by the Kangpokpi Town Committee in collaboration with local organisations.
Neonu, who had been serving in a professional capacity with Air India, was among the casualties of the fatal crash. Her untimely death has left a deep wound in the hearts of many, especially in her home community. “She was more than a daughter to this town; she was a symbol of dedication and hope,” said a resident participating in the vigil. Upon arrival at her residence, traditional rites were performed by representatives of the Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills and Kuki Women Union Sadar Hills. Her coffin was ceremonially draped with a shawl as a mark of cultural honour. Throughout the evening, numerous civil society groups including the Kangpokpi Women Welfare Organisation and the Kangpokpi Youth Union paid floral tributes and offered heartfelt condolences.
Kaipu Kipgen, Neonu’s uncle, expressed profound gratitude to all those who had helped bring her home. “We are deeply touched and forever grateful for the love and support extended by communities in Nagaland and Manipur, the Nagaland Police, the Eimi Riders Nagaland group who escorted her from the airport, and the Naga People’s Organisation and residents of Senapati,” he said. A solemn overnight vigil was held at her residence, led by the Thadou Baptist Association and the local ward committee. Community members gathered to sing hymns and offer prayers through the night, ensuring she was never left alone in her final hours. Funeral services are scheduled to commence at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 20, followed by burial at the town cemetery in the afternoon. The local administration coordinated closely with civil society groups to ensure all ceremonial proceedings were conducted smoothly amidst the large turnout.
