New Delhi: The killing of 54-year-old Manipuri musician and retired music teacher Chongtham Vikram Singh in Delhi has triggered outrage in the Northeast and a political controversy, with Congress Rajya Sabha MP Pawan Khera accusing the government of allowing a “culture of impunity” to develop.
Singh died on Monday while undergoing treatment after he was allegedly assaulted outside his home in Kilokari village in southeast Delhi. According to police, Singh had objected to shouting and disturbance allegedly involving people working at nearby eateries and delivery services. He was subsequently taken to Holy Family Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Reacting to the incident, Khera argued that the killing should not simply be viewed as an isolated case of drunken violence. In a post on X, he said years of alleged tolerance of loud DJs, public nuisance and disregard for rules had contributed to an environment where people felt they could act without fear of consequences.
“The government may not have wielded the bat that killed Vikram Singh. But it cannot escape responsibility for creating the environment that led to his murder,” Khera said.
The remarks have added a political dimension to the case, with the Congress leader questioning the enforcement of public-order regulations and accusing authorities of looking the other way when rules are repeatedly ignored.
The incident has also renewed concerns among members of the Northeast community living in Delhi. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma expressed distress over Singh’s death, saying the incident had reopened painful memories of alleged atrocities and discrimination faced by people from the Northeast in the national capital. He urged the authorities and Delhi Police to ensure the strongest possible action against those responsible.
Police have registered a case under murder-related provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Reports said seven accused persons have been apprehended, including some who are minors according to initial reports, while the investigation continues. Police are also examining CCTV footage to establish the sequence of events and determine the individual roles of those involved.
Meanwhile, members of the Manipuri community held a candlelight march in Delhi demanding justice for Singh. Manipur MP Bimol Akoijam also called for exemplary punishment, stressing that every citizen, regardless of whether they come from the Northeast or elsewhere, deserves to live with dignity and security.
The investigation remains underway, while Singh’s death has become a flashpoint over public safety, enforcement of law and the treatment of people from the Northeast in Delhi.
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