Imphal: Eight people have been arrested in connection with the death of 54-year-old Manipuri guitarist and music teacher Chongtham Vikram Singh, who was allegedly assaulted in southeast Delhi’s Kilokari village near Ashram on Monday.
The incident has triggered strong reactions from Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and Lok Sabha MP Bimol Akoijam, who have called for strict action against those responsible.
According to Delhi Police, the altercation began after Singh reportedly objected to loud shouting and public nuisance allegedly involving delivery workers and staff of a dhaba located opposite his residence. The confrontation escalated, with Singh allegedly being attacked by multiple people and repeatedly punched.
Singh’s son, Yaiphaba, took him to Holy Family Hospital after the assault. However, he later died from his injuries. A case was registered at Sunlight Colony Police Station after police received a PCR call regarding the incident.
Akoijam confirmed the arrests on Tuesday, saying he had been in contact with Delhi Police, AIIMS authorities and local volunteers following the incident. In a post on X, the MP condemned the assault and called for exemplary punishment, stressing that every person’s life and dignity must be protected irrespective of whether they come from the Northeast or elsewhere in the country.
Singh was a noted figure in Manipur’s Western music movement and had been associated with bands such as Ultra Vires, Phoenix and Eastern Dark. He was also the eldest son of acclaimed Manipuri singer Chongtham Kamala.
Reacting to his death, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh expressed grief and paid tribute to the musician’s contribution to Manipur’s cultural landscape.
“I am deeply saddened by the untimely demise of renowned guitarist Shri Chongtham Vikram. His valuable contribution to music and the cultural life of Manipur will always be remembered with deep respect,” the Chief Minister said.