What Steps Are Being Taken to Bring Home the Remains of Manipuri Air India Crew Members?
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Synopsis
The tragic loss of Air India crew members from Manipur has sparked a wave of mourning across the state. As families await the return of their loved ones' remains, the community unites in solidarity, urging cooperation in the final rites. Discover how COCOMI is facilitating this process and honoring the memory of these young lives.
Key Takeaways
- Two Air India crew members tragically lost their lives in a recent plane crash.
- The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) is facilitating their return.
- Communities across Manipur are coming together to mourn and support the families.
- DNA identification is necessary before the remains can be brought back.
- Community cooperation is essential for a dignified return.
Imphal, June 16 (NationPress) The remains of Air India crew members 26-year-old Lamnunthem Singson and 20-year-old Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma, both from Manipur, who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, are set to return to Imphal following DNA testing and other formalities, a prominent Civil Society Organisation (CSO) reported on Monday.
The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), the leading organization of the Meitei community, revealed that according to information from the families of Singson and Sharma, the identification of the deceased is currently in progress through DNA analysis.
“The DNA-based identification is projected to take around 72 hours. Once finalized, the remains will be transported back to their home state of Manipur,” stated COCOMI’s information wing convenor Laikhuram Jayenta.
Sharma was part of the non-tribal Meitei community from Thoubal district, while Singson hailed from the tribal Thadou community in Kangpokpi district.
COCOMI has called for cooperation from the community in receiving the remains of these two daughters of Manipur.
The organization emphasized that the entire state is united in grief over their untimely passing.
“Since the tragic news emerged, residents across the state, especially the youth, have paid tribute through candlelight vigils, prayers, and messages of solidarity, providing comfort and strength to the grieving families.
“In this regard, COCOMI urges all sectors of society, including CSOs, local organizations, youth groups, and the general public, to offer full support in receiving the remains at Imphal Airport and ensuring their dignified return for final rites.
“CSOs are also appealing to the state government and relevant administrative bodies to facilitate all necessary arrangements for the efficient transfer of the bodies to their homes.
“If the families are willing, they are encouraged to come forward to receive their daughters at the airport without hesitation. COCOMI stands ready to provide any required coordination or assistance during this process,” said Jayenta.
The statement concluded with a community message: “Let us honor their return and pray for their souls to find eternal peace. May the land of Manipur warmly welcome back her daughters with love and pride. If life offers them another chance, may they return to us once again as the shining daughters of our soil.”
In the meantime, family members of both Singson and Sharma have traveled to Ahmedabad to complete the necessary procedures.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the profound impact of this tragedy on the families and community of Manipur. The loss of young lives in such a devastating manner is a reminder of the fragility of life. It is essential that we, as a nation, come together to support the grieving families and ensure a respectful process for the return of their loved ones. This situation calls for empathy, unity, and a commitment to honoring those we have lost.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the remains of the crew members?
The remains of the crew members are undergoing DNA identification and will be returned to Manipur after the process is completed, which is expected to take approximately 72 hours.
Who are the victims of the plane crash?
The victims are Lamnunthem Singson, 26, and Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma, 20, both Air India crew members from Manipur.
What has COCOMI requested from the community?
COCOMI has urged all sections of society to cooperate in receiving the remains at Imphal Airport and to ensure a dignified return for final rites.
How can the community show support?
The community can show support by participating in vigils and assisting in the logistics for the return of the remains.
What has been the community's response to this tragedy?
The community has united in mourning, with many organizing candlelight vigils and expressing condolences to the families.
