Singer Prashant Tamang, winner of Indian Idol 3, has died at 43. His victory in 2007 sparked widespread protests in the Darjeeling hills and Northeast region following a racist remark by a radio jockey targeting the Gorkha community. The incident led to violent unrest, arson, and curfews, prompting the deployment of army and BSF. The radio station faced a ban and legal action, while Tamang appealed for peace amidst the turmoil.