A candlelight vigil took place at Kangla Gate in Imphal on Monday, as community members gathered to demand justice for Manipuri musician Chongtham Vikram. Vikram reportedly died following an assault in Delhi, prompting public outcry for accountability and swift legal action.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh expressed deep sorrow over the death of Chongtham Vikram , describing him as a respected musician and music teacher from Manipur who died following an assault at his residence in Kilokri, New Delhi. The 54-year-old musician died after a group of delivery workers and dhaba staff allegedly assaulted him when he objected to their shouting and drinking alcohol outside his Delhi apartment. Sharing details of the accused, police said they arrested Bharat Kumar (19), Pramod (26), Ramzan Khan (22), Deepanshu (21), Mohan Vishwakarma (32), Vijay (36), Mannu (26), and one juvenile. Vikram, who belonged to Manipur’s Meitei community, had been living in south Delhi’s Kilokri neighbourhood for nearly 10 years while teaching music in the city.
Condemning the act of violence, the Chief Minister said that no one should have to face such violence or lose their life simply for seeking peace in their own neighbourhood. Delhi Police said seven men have been arrested and a minor has been detained. He was a gifted guitarist, musician and teacher, and an integral part of Delhi’s music community, his friends told reporters. The North East Students Society, Delhi University (NESSDU) condoled his death, describing him as a “respected Manipuri musician”.
