Imphal: Thousands of residents in Kangpokpi town came together to pay their respects to Lamnunthem Singson, a victim of the recent Air India crash, as her body arrived in town on Thursday evening. At 9:20 pm, a human chain stretching several kilometres was formed along National Highway-2, as the Kangpokpi Town Committee organised a candlelight vigil.
The solemn procession, which extended from downtown Kangpokpi to Ngambom Veng, Ward No. 8, where Singson lived, was attended by community members of all ages. They held candles as the funeral convoy made its way through the town, paying tribute to the deceased. Singson’s death has deeply affected the local community, which has rallied to support her family during this difficult time.
At her residence, representatives from the Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills and Kuki Women Union Sadar Hills conducted traditional ceremonies, draping a ceremonial shawl over her coffin. Multiple community organisations, including the Kangpokpi Women Welfare Organisation and Kangpokpi Youth Union, presented floral tributes and condolence messages. Kaipu Kipgen, Singson’s uncle, thanked the various communities and organisations that facilitated her body’s journey home.
The community came together to pay their respects, with the Thadou Baptist Association, Kangpokpi, and the local ward committee conducting an overnight vigil with hymns and prayers. Community members maintained the vigil throughout the night as a mark of respect. Funeral services are scheduled to begin at 11:00 am on June 20, with burial planned for later that afternoon at the town cemetery.
Kaipu Kipgen acknowledged the support received from people in Nagaland, the Naga and Kuki communities, Nagaland Police, and the Eimi Riders Nagaland group, who provided escort services from Dimapur Airport. He expressed gratitude, saying, “We are deeply touched and forever grateful,” and also recognised assistance from the Naga People’s Organisation and residents of Senapati district. The extensive community response reflects Singson’s standing in the local area and the impact her death has had on residents.
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