‘A shame for the whole nation’: Joi Baruah condemns death of Manipur musician in Delhi

Assam singer and composer Joi Baruah has condemned the death of 54-year-old Manipur-origin musician C. Vikram Singh following an alleged physical assault in Delhi, calling it “plain-blooded murder” and expressing concern over what he described as the capital’s continuing history of racial prejudice.

Speaking at an event commemorating the birth centenary of legendary musician Bhupen Hazarika, Baruah said Singh’s death, particularly on a day celebrating the legacy of one of India’s most celebrated cultural figures, was a matter of shame for the country.

“This is plain-blooded murder. He asked them to keep their voices down and they killed him. I really think law and order in this country should think about the way things are happening today,” Baruah said.

Baruah said he was shocked by the incident and questioned the circumstances surrounding Singh’s death. He said Singh had asked people to keep their voices down before the alleged assault.

“And they had the audacity to come and then kill him,” he said.

Baruah also linked the incident to concerns over racial prejudice faced by people from the Northeast in Delhi, saying it had brought “shame on Delhi’s recent history of racial prejudice”.

He called for the strictest possible action against those responsible.

“I really hope the harshest of laws are implemented,” Baruah said, urging authorities to treat the incident as a warning and ensure that such incidents are not repeated.

Reflecting on Hazarika’s legacy, Baruah said it was particularly painful to discuss the death of another musician while celebrating the life and contribution of one of India’s greatest cultural icons.

“India still doesn’t know how to celebrate its most beautiful people,” Baruah said, adding that while the country is known for its art and culture, it often fails to protect and respect those who practise and contribute to it.

According to Delhi Police, the incident took place between 10.30 pm and midnight on September 6-7, when Singh had an argument with some people in his lane over excessive noise. The argument allegedly escalated into a physical altercation, during which Singh sustained injuries.

South East Deputy Commissioner of Police Vineet Kumar said Singh was taken to a hospital by his family, where he later died. Police said seven people have been arrested and a minor has been apprehended in connection with the case.

(Inputs from ANI)