Manipur Government prepares to receive bodies of two of its state’s air crash victims
Short Summary
Manipur is engulfed in grief following the tragic Air India Flight AI 171 crash near Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. Two cabin crew members from the state—22‑year‑old Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma from Thoubal and 28‑year‑old Lamnunthem Singson from Kangpokpi—lost their lives. The Manipur government, in collaboration with Air India, Tata Group, COCOMI, TSA, and AAI, is making extensive arrangements for the dignified and respectful repatriation of their bodies. DNA identification is ongoing and expected to conclude within 72 hours, after which their mortal remains will be flown to Imphal for final rites
1. Introduction – When Dreams Meet Reality
Have you ever felt like life can change in just a heartbeat? For Nganthoi and Lamnunthem, two bright, ambitious young women from Manipur, the skies were not just a workplace—they were a platform for their dreams. Their aspirations soared with every flight they worked, each passenger they served, and every sky they crossed. Sadly, destiny intervened on June 12, 2025, turning their journey into a heartbreaking loss not just for their families, but for an entire state.
2. Day of the Tragedy – A Flight That Never Returned
Flight AI 171 took off from Ahmedabad en route to London’s Gatwick, but disaster struck moments after liftoff. The Boeing 787, carrying over 200 passengers and crew, plummeted, becoming one of the deadliest aviation incidents in recent memory. While authorities work around the clock to pinpoint causes and identify victims, the spotlight remains firmly on the two daughters from Manipur who perished in the mishap .
3. Profiles of Two Bright Stars
Kongbrailatpam Nganthoi Sharma (22) – Grace Above the Clouds
- Hails from Thoubal district.
- Just 22, yet had already exemplified professionalism and poise in the skies.
- Remembered as a symbol of youthful hope, grace under pressure, and determination.
Lamnunthem Singson (28) – Resilience in the Face of Adversity
- From Kangpokpi district, belonging to the Thadou community.
- Became an internally displaced person before rising to a job with Air India in 2024.
- Her role as the breadwinner gave dignity and hope to her family
4. The Coordinated Response: Government, Civil Bodies & Airlines
Manipur Government’s Role
The state government is pulling out all stops:
- Coordinating logistics with Air India and Tata Group to receive the bodies at Imphal.
- Ensuring dignified transportation and ceremonies per the families’ wishes.
- Chief Minister and other dignitaries have publicly expressed their heartfelt condolences, calling the tragedy “the silencing of dreams” and “the extinguishing of bright lights.”
COCOMI & TSA Initiatives
- COCOMI (Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity): Called on citizens to come together in unity and solidarity. They’re helping liaise with authorities and urging everyone to honor the young women’s return with dignity
- TSA (Thadou Students’ Association): Submitted a memorandum urging expedited and dignified repatriation, emphasizing that this is an extraordinary circumstance demanding compassionate-based response
Airports Authority of India (AAI) Stand
AAI Imphal has extended full cooperation:
- Ensuring a smooth, respectful reception on arrival.
- Conveying sympathy and deep appreciation for the crew’s service and bravery
5. DNA Identification Process – A Race Against Time and Pain
With bodies severely damaged, visual identification is impossible. The Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad is conducting DNA testing—a painstaking process expected to take up to 72 hours. Only after confirmation can the remains be released
This waiting period is agonizing for grieving families, but DNA mapping is essential to prevent misidentification and ensure dignity in the final farewell.
6. A Community’s Pain: Candlelight Vigil & Collective Mourning
Manipur is united in sorrow:
- Candlelight vigils, interfaith prayers, and silent tributes are being held statewide.
- Schools, local clubs, and youth groups are rallying together—handing out flowers, displaying condolence boards, and offering emotional support to bereaved families
7. Logistical Ballet: Bringing Them Home
Once DNA results are out, the following coordinated measures unfold:
- Permission & coordination between state and airport authorities.
- Flight arrangements via Air India/Tata Group for the remains.
- Reception at Imphal Airport—AAI, COCOMI, TSA, government—all prepared.
- Transport to hometowns—Thoubal and Kangpokpi—with full adherence to families’ traditions and desires
Aviation Follow‑Ups: Safety Checks & Investigations
In the broader context, authorities are taking safety regulations and crisis prevention seriously:
- All 34 Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliners nationwide are undergoing immediate inspections; eight have already been checked
- A high-level government committee is reviewing flight procedures and emergency protocols post-crash
- Recovery and analysis of the black box in Ahmedabad could reveal technical details—everything from engine performance to cockpit data.
Reflections & Remembrance
What can we take away from this catastrophe? Here are a few heartbeats worth noting:
- Dreams can be fragile, but the spirit behind them endures.
- A small state, often overshadowed, can unite and shine through unity and empathy.
- In their passing, Nganthoi and Lamnunthem teach us that courage, grace, and service transcend professions—they define legacies.
FAQs
1. When will the DNA identification be completed?
Authorities expect the DNA matching for the remains of the two cabin crew to take about 72 hours, estimated to finish around June 17–18.
2. Who is coordinating the repatriation in Manipur?
The state government, along with COCOMI, TSA, AAI, Air India, and Tata Group, are orchestrating the dignified reception and final transfer of the deceased.
3. What support are vigil and student groups offering?
COCOMI and TSA have requested public participation in welcoming the bodies and are coordinating emotional and logistical support, including preludes to the final rites.
4. How is the aviation sector responding?
Post-crash, all 34 Air India Boeing 787s are being inspected urgently. A high-level government panel has been set up to investigate and ensure future safety.
5. Can I donate to the families or related initiatives?
Yes. You can support relief funds for the families, donate to local Manipur NGOs providing grief counseling, or contribute to scholarships in the names of the deceased crew members.
