The postmortem report of celebrated Manipuri music director Chongthem Vikram Singh has revealed harrowing details about the brutal assault that claimed his life in New Delhi. The AIIMS Delhi autopsy concluded that the 54-year-old died primarily due to massive internal bleeding resulting from severe trauma to his chest and abdomen.
According to the report, approximately 15 of his ribs were found fractured, and deep injuries caused by a heavy bludgeoning weapon were observed on his chest and stomach area. Beyond the thoracic trauma, marks of beatings were also discovered on multiple parts of his body — including his scalp, face, arms, back, and legs — indicating the ferocity and sustained nature of the attack.
Vikram Singh had been undergoing medical treatment in a Delhi hospital after being attacked, but he could not be saved. His death has sent shockwaves through Manipur's music and cultural community, which had long considered him one of its most respected composers and a key figure in preserving and promoting Meitei musical traditions.
The Delhi Police have registered a case and arrested eight individuals in connection with the incident, including a minor who has been handed over to a juvenile justice board for further proceedings. Investigators have stated that the probe is ongoing and that motive-related details are still being pieced together from witness statements and CCTV footage.
Vikram Singh's death has reignited conversations about the safety of artists and creative professionals travelling to metropolitan cities for performances and professional engagements. Several Manipur-based cultural organisations have expressed anguish and called for swift justice, while also raising concerns about the broader security environment affecting the state's artistic community in recent years.
