In a startling development, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has claimed in the state assembly that the death of popular singer Zubeen Garg was not an accident, but a “plain and simple murder.” The announcement comes amid an intensifying investigation into the circumstances surrounding the singer’s untimely demise.
Investigation Reclassified as Murder
Zubeen Garg, 52, died on September 19, 2025, while swimming in Singapore during the North East India Festival. Initially reported as a drowning accident, the case has now been escalated following the Chief Minister’s assertion of foul play. An FIR has been filed under sections relating to criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, and negligence.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the Assam CID has been formed to conduct a thorough probe. According to the Chief Minister, evidence suggests that one individual directly caused Garg’s death while others were complicit. The investigation now carries murder charges under Section 103, and authorities are working to file the chargesheet by December 8.
Developments in the Probe
- Arrests Made: Seven individuals, including the festival organiser, Garg’s manager, and two of his bandmates, have been taken into custody.
- Witnesses and Evidence: The SIT has examined 252 witnesses and seized 29 key items pertinent to the investigation.
- Post-Mortem Analysis: A second post-mortem was conducted at Guwahati Medical College & Hospital to support the ongoing inquiry.
Financial Probes and Broader Inquiry
Beyond criminal charges, the Chief Minister has indicated that financial irregularities connected to the festival organiser will be investigated by the Enforcement Directorate and the Income Tax Department. Sarma also mentioned that, if necessary, the case could be referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
Political Reactions and Public Concern
Sarma’s declaration has drawn political attention and public scrutiny. Emphasising that the move is not politically motivated, the Chief Minister stated that revealing the motive behind Garg’s death will shock the people of Assam.
“It is a murder. One person killed him, others assisted. We have not come to fool around with Zubeen, or do politics with him,” he asserted in the assembly.
Outlook
With a target of filing the chargesheet by early December, the SIT continues to probe the case, which now spans both criminal and financial dimensions. The outcome of this investigation is likely to have significant legal and political implications, marking a pivotal moment in Assam’s response to the singer’s tragic death.
