Did Hundreds Bid a Tearful Farewell to AI Crew Member Lamnunthem Singson in Manipur?
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Synopsis
A poignant farewell took place in Manipur for Lamnunthem Singson, a young Air India crew member who lost her life in a tragic plane crash. This article captures the emotional moments of her funeral and the challenges faced by her family in the wake of recent ethnic violence.
Key Takeaways
- Lamnunthem Singson was a dedicated Air India crew member.
- She tragically lost her life in a plane crash on June 12.
- The community showed overwhelming support during her funeral.
- Her family faces ongoing challenges due to recent ethnic violence.
- Authorities are working on the investigation and arrangements for the other crew member.
Imphal, June 20 (NationPress) On Friday, a large crowd of local residents, relatives, and dignitaries gathered to say a heartfelt goodbye to 26-year-old Lamnunthem Singson, one of two Air India crew members from Manipur who tragically lost their lives in the devastating Ahmedabad plane crash on June 12, occurring in the state’s Kangpokpi district.
The remains of Lamnunthem were transported to the hill district late Thursday evening from Ahmedabad, arriving via Nagaland’s Dimapur airport. Family sources indicated that her remains were taken to Kangpokpi, bypassing Imphal, the capital of Manipur, due to ongoing ethnic tensions and safety concerns.
Friday morning marked the start of the funeral service, attended by hundreds, including family and community leaders, culminating in her burial at the Kangpokpi town cemetery in the afternoon. Lamnunthem’s body had been flown from Ahmedabad to Dimapur on an IndiGo flight the previous Thursday, where family, community representatives, and officials awaited her arrival.
As the convoy traveled from Dimapur to Kangpokpi, it made several stops where community members from various organizations, including Kuki and Naga groups, paid their respects and honored her memory.
Born on November 13, 1998, Lamnunthem was the only daughter of her widowed mother, Nemneilhing Singson, and the third of four siblings. Her father, Lienminlun Singson, had passed away a few years prior. Following the ethnic violence that plagued Manipur since May 2023, Lamnunthem’s family fled their ancestral home in Imphal's Old Lambulane area and now reside in a rented house in Kangpokpi district.
Despite the daunting challenges, Lamnunthem became the family's primary provider. Her eldest brother, Ngamlienthang, is suffering from a serious medical condition and is receiving treatment in Guwahati, while her youngest brother, Lenjathang, is still too young to earn.
Officials in Imphal have yet to announce when the remains of the other crew member, Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma (20), will be returned to Imphal. Manipur Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh stated that the state government has assured both the Tata Group and Air India of its readiness to receive the remains of the two courageous crew members in Imphal.
He emphasized that arrangements have been made to ensure the remains are treated with utmost dignity and respect, and safely transported to their homes. The Chief Secretary lamented that this loss extends beyond two lives; it signifies the extinguishing of dreams, the departure of individuals who brought pride to Manipur, and the loss of two bright lights that once soared in the skies.
“Their service and spirit will be forever honored,” Singh remarked.
Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma hailed from the non-tribal Meitei community in Manipur's Thoubal district. Earlier, Sharma's family traveled to Ahmedabad to complete the necessary formalities for repatriating their loved one's remains.
Point of View
I acknowledge the profound loss experienced by families and communities in Manipur due to the recent plane crash. This tragedy highlights the importance of unity and support in times of adversity. We stand with those affected, pledging to convey their stories with the utmost respect and sensitivity.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the plane crash in Ahmedabad?
The investigation into the causes of the plane crash in Ahmedabad is ongoing, with authorities prioritizing safety and accountability.
Who was Lamnunthem Singson?
Lamnunthem Singson was a 26-year-old Air India crew member from Manipur, tragically killed in a plane crash on June 12.
How is the community responding to this tragedy?
The community has come together to honor Lamnunthem’s memory, showing solidarity and support for her family during this challenging time.
What challenges does her family face now?
Lamnunthem’s family is dealing with significant hardships, including economic struggles and the emotional toll of their loss.
When will the remains of the other crew member be returned?
Officials have not yet announced a specific date for the return of the remains of the other crew member, Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma.
