IMPHAL: Akhu Chingangbam, the acclaimed singer-songwriter and activist, was abducted at gunpoint from his residence in Imphal on December 29.
According to reports, unidentified armed men forcibly took Chingangbam from his home, putting his wife and mother under threat during the abduction.
Chingangbam, a prominent figure in the Imphal music scene and an active participant in state rehabilitation efforts, had been involved in initiatives following the outbreak of violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur on May 3.
In an informal conversation with Northeast News in June, he had revealed his frequent visits to rehabilitation camps in Moirang and Phayeng, expressing deep concern over the ongoing violence in the state.
“Peace can only return to Manipur when violence ceases to exist,” he had remarked. Chingangbam had urged people to contribute to the rehabilitation of victims, stating, “Firing is still going on, people are still being killed, thousands are homeless; in such a situation, how can we talk of peace; who will listen. People should step up and help rehabilitate the victims of violence.”
Beyond his musical endeavours, Chingangbam played was one of the organisers of the popular independent festival Where Have All The Flowers Gone in Imphal.
In a recent update, he had disclosed expressed tentative hope for a possible return of peace to the state and improvement in conditions.
The news of his abduction has sent shockwaves through the music community of Northeast, and concerns are mounting over the safety of the artist and activist.
This is developing story and more inputs are awaited.
