Manipuri musician and music teacher Chongtham Vikram Singh had allegedly been threatened by some of the men who later assaulted him, according to the First Information Report (FIR) registered in connection with his death in southeast Delhi.

Singh, 54, was allegedly beaten by a group of men outside his residence in the Sunlight Colony area on the night of September 6 after he objected to a disturbance near his home. He was taken to Holy Family Hospital but died during treatment from injuries sustained in the assault. 

FIR Details Earlier Threats

According to the FIR, Singh told his son while being taken to hospital that some of the men involved in the assault had threatened him earlier.

The FIR states that Singh identified the attackers as people associated with a dhaba located near his residential building. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the earlier confrontation as part of the murder case. 

The latest detail adds a new dimension to the case, suggesting that the fatal confrontation may have followed an earlier dispute rather than being an entirely isolated incident.

Dispute Began Over Noise

The incident occurred at around 11:30 pm on September 6, when Singh reportedly went downstairs to dispose of garbage and noticed a group of people making noise near his residence.

According to police and family accounts, Singh objected to the disturbance, following which an argument broke out. The group allegedly followed him into the building and assaulted him in the stairway area.

CCTV footage subsequently examined by police showed several alleged attackers leaving the building shortly after midnight. Singh was later carried out by his family members and taken to hospital. 

Seven Adults, Juvenile Arrested

Delhi Police have arrested seven adults and detained a juvenile in connection with the case.

The accused include people described by police as workers associated with nearby eateries and food-delivery services. The case has been registered under Sections 103(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, relating to murder by a group and common intention. 

The investigation is continuing, including examination of CCTV footage and statements from witnesses.

Son Witnessed the Assault

Singh's son, Yaiphaba, was present during the incident and later helped take his father to hospital.

According to the FIR, Singh was able to identify some of his alleged attackers to his son while being transported for medical treatment. The police are examining this account along with other evidence collected during the investigation. 

The family has called for a fair investigation and accountability for those responsible.

Manipur Seeks High-Level Probe

The killing has triggered strong reactions in Manipur and among members of the Northeast community in Delhi.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has written to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, seeking a fair, transparent and time-bound investigation and strict action against those responsible. 

A candlelight vigil was also held in Imphal, where people demanded justice for the musician. 

Music Community Mourns Loss

Singh was known for his contribution to Manipur's Western music scene and had earlier been associated with bands including Phoenix and Eastern Dark. He later moved to Delhi and worked as a music teacher.

Colleagues and friends have described him as a respected musician who had built much of his life around music after moving to the capital. His death has prompted concern among members of the Northeast community about safety and security in Delhi.

The investigation will now focus on establishing the sequence of events, the circumstances behind the earlier alleged threats and the individual roles of those arrested.