Members of Delhi’s North-East community staged protests and candlelight marches on Tuesday, demanding swift justice for Manipuri musician and music teacher Chongtham Vikram Singh, who was allegedly beaten to death outside his home in South Delhi’s Kilokari area. The incident has sparked outrage across the North-East, with community groups raising fresh concerns about the safety of people from the region living in the national capital.
According to Delhi Police, the 55-year-old musician confronted a group of delivery workers and dhaba staff who were allegedly creating noise outside his apartment late on Sunday night. The argument turned violent, and Vikram Singh was allegedly chased and brutally assaulted in the stair lobby of his building. He was rushed to Holy Family Hospital by his family but died during treatment due to severe injuries.
Police have arrested seven accused and apprehended one minor in connection with the murder. Investigators said CCTV footage has captured parts of the incident, and the investigation is underway to establish the sequence of events and the role of each accused.
Members of the North-East Students’ Society, Delhi University (NESSDU), along with several Manipuri civil society organisations, gathered outside Sunlight Colony Police Station demanding a fair and time-bound investigation. Protesters said the accused must face strict punishment and alleged that people from the North-East often face discrimination and insecurity in Delhi.
Eyewitnesses claimed that the attackers followed Vikram Singh to his apartment after the initial confrontation and assaulted him near his home before fleeing the scene. Community members said the incident has left many North-East families in Delhi feeling unsafe.
Political leaders have also reacted strongly. Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh condemned the killing and sought justice for the family, while several opposition leaders questioned the safety of North-East residents in Delhi and called for a thorough investigation.
Vikram Singh was a respected guitarist from Manipur’s rock music scene and had been living in Delhi for nearly two decades, teaching music to young students. His death has been described as a major loss for the Manipuri music community.
As protests continue, Delhi Police have assured that legal action is being taken and that the investigation will proceed swiftly. However, community organisations have vowed to continue their campaign until justice is delivered and accountability is ensured.
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