GUWAHATI: A 54-year-old Manipuri music teacher and guitarist, Chongtham Vikram Singh, died after he was assaulted by a group of men following a dispute over noise and nuisance outside his residence in southeast Delhi.
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The incident took place in Kilokari village near Ashram, where Singh had reportedly objected to shouting and other nuisance allegedly caused by workers at dhabas and food stalls operating opposite his home.
According to police, Singh came downstairs to raise the issue and was allegedly confronted by a group of men, who punched and kicked him. He managed to flee towards his residence, but the group allegedly followed him into the building.
Singh was taken to Holy Family Hospital by his son, Yaiphaba, for treatment but later succumbed to his injuries, police said.
CCTV footage showed a group of men leaving the apartment building after the alleged assault, according to police.
Police have arrested seven men in connection with the case: Bharat Kumar, 19; Pramod, 26; Ramzan Khan, 22; Deepanshu, 21; Mohan Vishwakarma, 32; Vijay, 36; and Mannu, 26. A juvenile has also been apprehended. Police said the accused work as delivery workers and at various dhabas and food stalls.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault and Singh’s death. Further legal action will follow based on the findings, Delhi Police said, adding that more facts would emerge as the investigation progresses.
Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh condoled Singh's death and urged the Delhi Police to conduct a thorough investigation and take swift action against those responsible.
"Deeply saddened by the tragic passing of renowned Manipuri guitarist and Western music pioneer, Shri Chongtham Vikram Singh," Biren Singh wrote on X, expressing concern over the alleged assault near Singh's residence.
Singh was known for his contribution to 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.