The mortal remains of esteemed Manipuri guitarist and educator Chongtham Vikram Singh were brought to Imphal International Airport on September 9. Family members, friends, fellow musicians, and local residents gathered to mourn his passing and call for justice following his death in New Delhi, which is alleged to have resulted from an assault.

Singer Singh, aged 54, reportedly lost his life after a brutal attack in the Sunlight Colony area of Kilokari village. His untimely death has caused widespread sorrow in Manipur and among the Manipuri community residing in Delhi. Family and fellow artists have voiced concerns regarding the safety and dignity of individuals from Northeast India.

At the airport, Singh’s brother, Chongtham Vivek, expressed the family’s desire for justice and a safer environment for people from the Northeast. He articulated the pain shared by many, saying the incident reflects broader issues of discrimination faced by their community.

Calls for Accountability and Action

Hamom Sadananda, a fellow musician who attended the airport ceremony, described Singh as a humble and kind individual. He emphasised the need for strict action against those responsible for the assault. He stated that discrimination against Northeastern individuals should not be tolerated. Sadananda noted, “What has happened to my brother should never be repeated in India,” stressing the importance of justice in this case.

Dhiren Sadokpam, a journalist based in Manipur, conveyed the collective grief of the community. He pointed out the urgent need to address issues of discrimination experienced by Northeastern residents in Delhi, remarking that incidents like these indicate a worrying trend of racism. Sadokpam insisted that appropriate and decisive measures must be taken by the authorities to prevent further tragedies.

He highlighted the significance of accountability, calling for exemplary punishment for those involved in Singh’s assault to send a clear message against violence and discrimination. The community’s sorrow is compounded by the fear that ongoing racism could escalate into more severe confrontations if left unaddressed.

Details of the Incident and Ongoing Investigation

According to the police report, the altercation began when Singh objected to several men creating noise outside his residence in South Delhi’s Ashram area. Following the complaint, the assailants allegedly verbally abused him and subsequently pursued him into his building, where they assaulted him with physical force.

The family reported that Singh’s wife later identified the accused as individuals who had previously threatened her husband. Police investigations have involved reviewing CCTV footage, which allegedly showed the attackers leaving the premises after the incident. Singh was later transported to Holy Family Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

Authorities have confirmed the arrest of eight individuals connected to the case, including one juvenile. South East District Police Chief Vineet Kumar stated that the altercation stemmed from a dispute regarding noise levels. It escalated into physical violence, leading to Singh’s tragic outcome.

Community Mourning and Support

The news of Singh’s death has sparked widespread mourning not only in Manipur but also among the community in Delhi. A candlelight vigil was held at Kangla Western Gate, where hundreds gathered to honour his memory on the previous Tuesday.

Community members have expressed solidarity in their grief while reiterating the need for a safer environment for all individuals. These are particularly those from the Northeast. The collective investment in seeking justice reflects ongoing tensions regarding the treatment and perception of Northeastern citizens in various parts of India.

As investigations continue, the demand for justice remains a focal point for Singh’s family and the wider community. They hoping that this incident will lead to meaningful changes concerning discrimination and safety in the capital.

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