UKHRUL: Eight people have been arrested in connection with the death of renowned Manipuri guitarist and music teacher Chongtham Vikram Singh (54) who died after being allegedly assaulted by a group of men in Kilokari village near Ashram in southeast Delhi, police said.
The development, a case of mob lyncing, was shared by Manipur MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, who said the deputy commissioner of Police informed him that eight accused had been arrested following a day of coordination between his office, the police, AIIMS, DMCC volunteers and Singh’s family.
In a post on X, Akoijam said that dignity of life must be upheld regardless of whether a person belongs to the Northeast or what he described as the “mainstream” or “mainland” of India. He called for exemplary punishment for those responsible for Singh’s death, describing him as a “gentle soul and gifted, pioneering guitarist.”
Singh had reportedly objected to alleged shouting and nuisance caused by delivery workers and staff of a dhaba operating opposite his residence. According to the police, he came downstairs to raise the issue, following which he was allegedly attacked by a group of men who assaulted him with fists and blows.
Singh was taken to Holy Family Hospital by his son, Yaiphaba, for treatment but later succumbed to his injuries, police said. A PCR call regarding the assault was received at Sunlight Colony Police Station on Monday, following which police reached the spot.
Singh was a prominent figure in Manipur’s Western music scene and had played guitar with bands including Ultra Vires, Phoenix and Eastern Dark. He was also the eldest son of renowned Manipuri singer Chongtham Kamala.
His death has triggered an outpouring of grief from Manipur’s music fraternity and public figures.
Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Sing on X said “I am deeply saddened by the untimely demise of renowned guitarist Shri Chongtham Vikram,” and added that “His valuable contribution to music and the cultural life of Manipur will always be remembered with deep respect.”
Former Manipur chief minister N. Biren Singh also expressed condolences over Singh’s death and urged the Delhi Police to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is delivered at the earliest.
Singh took to X saying, “Vikram Singh’s invaluable contribution to music will always be remembered. His untimely passing is a great loss to his family, the music fraternity, and the people of Manipur. With evidence now emerging in connection with the incident, I urge the Delhi Police to take swift and appropriate action, thoroughly investigate the matter, and ensure that justice is delivered at the earliest.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength and solace during this difficult time.”
The latest arrests come as the investigation continues into the circumstances leading to the death of the 54-year-old musician.
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Reacting to the incident, North East Media Forum in New Delhi strongly condemned the killing of Manipuri music teacher and musician Chongtham Vikram Singh in Delhi and demanded the strictest possible action against everyone responsible.
NEMF has called for a prompt, impartial and transparent investigation, with no one involved in the violence being allowed to escape accountability.
Update: The persons arrested have been identified as Bharat Kumar, 19; Pramod, 26; Ramzan Khan, 22; Deepanshu, 21; Mohan Vishwakarma, 32; Vijay, 36; and Mannu, 26. A 15-year-old juvenile has also been detained.
