Imphal, June 20, 2025 – In a poignant homecoming, the mortal remains of Lamnunthem Singson, a 26‑year‑old Kuki cabin crew member who perished in the June 12 Air India Flight AI 171 crash, arrived in her native Kangpokpi district late Thursday night. Fondly known as “Neonu,” Singson’s final journey underscored both the nationwide grief over India’s deadliest aviation disaster in years and the ongoing ethnic tensions that shape life in Manipur. ndtv.com
Key Takeaways
- Arrival & Route: Singson’s body was flown from Ahmedabad to Dimapur, Nagaland, and then escorted on a seven‑hour road convoy—bypassing Imphal—through Kohima to Kangpokpi, as her family opted for a safer route amid Kuki‑Meitei unrest timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
- Community Tribute: Thousands formed a human chain along NH‑2, holding candles in a solemn vigil under the aegis of the Kangpokpi Town Committee ndtv.com.
- Funeral Plans: Following night prayers and traditional rites, Singson’s funeral is scheduled for Friday at the Kangpokpi public cemetery.
Expert Insight
“This tragic repatriation highlights not only the human toll of aviation disasters, but also the complex overlays of ethnic conflict that can affect even the most personal of moments,” says Dr. Aditi Sharma, Aviation Safety Specialist at IIT Madras (LinkedIn).
“As investigators decode the black box and authorities expedite safety audits, families deserve transparent timelines and support.” airindia.com
What Happens Next?
- Crash Investigation: A multidisciplinary committee, including the DGCA and a UK investigation team, is expected to release interim findings within three months theguardian.com.
- Fleet Inspections: On June 20, the Ministry of Civil Aviation announced enhanced Dreamliner checks; several international and domestic flights have been temporarily grounded airindia.com.
- Family Support: The Ministry’s Crisis Management Group continues DNA‑matching and psychological support for victim families at designated relief camps.
Daily Digest: Air India AI 171 Coverage
- Jun 12: Flight AI 171 crashes seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad → 241 onboard fatalities + 29 on ground.
- Jun 14: NDRF and NDRF teams complete initial debris clearance; only one survivor, passenger Vishwash Kumar Ramesh.
- Jun 15: Latest DNA matching identifies 32 victims; 14 bodies returned to kin apnews.com.
- Jun 18: Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu vows highest alert status, personally monitoring recovery and repatriation efforts timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Last updated: June 20, 2025, 14:00 IST
