In a major development in the ongoing investigation into the sudden death of renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, the Indian government has formally sought Singapore’s assistance under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT). The request aims to facilitate a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Garg’s drowning during a yacht trip in Singapore on September 19, 2025.
Zubeen Garg, aged 52, was a celebrated singer known for his contributions to Assamese music and his versatility across languages and genres. His unexpected death has sparked widespread concern among fans, the music fraternity, and the general public, with mounting demands for clarity about the incident.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the Ministry of Home Affairs has invoked the MLAT with Singapore, allowing Indian authorities to coordinate closely with their counterparts there. “We are committed to ensuring a transparent and thorough investigation into this unfortunate incident,” Sarma said. Under this arrangement, relevant evidence can be exchanged and investigations streamlined across borders.
Alongside this, the Assam government has set up a 10-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the leadership of Special Director General of Police MP Gupta. Two officers from Assam Police are already in Singapore to work in close coordination with local authorities. The SIT’s mandate is to probe every detail surrounding Garg’s death and examine inconsistencies in initial accounts.
The investigation has intensified following allegations from Garg’s family. His wife, Garima Garg, has demanded answers regarding events preceding his death, specifically mentioning two individuals, Siddharth and Shekhar, who were reportedly with him on the yacht. She stated, “We want to know what exactly happened in Singapore,” highlighting the family’s need for clarity and justice.
According to sources, the SIT has questioned key witnesses to ascertain whether the event was part of an official festival and to clarify the sequence of events on board the yacht prior to Garg’s rescue by Singapore police. These developments have added urgency to the probe.
Experts note that the use of the MLAT in this case underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing incidents involving citizens abroad. This approach ensures a more rigorous investigative process and greater accountability.
The case has attracted nationwide attention, with social media discussions and calls for transparency growing daily. Authorities in both India and Singapore have pledged full cooperation, with the SIT promising to reveal findings once the investigation concludes.
As the probe continues, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind Zubeen Garg’s untimely death and delivering justice for the bereaved family.
