Assam Government Sets Up Fast-Track Court for Zubeen Garg Murder Case: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Thanks Gauhati High Court Chief Justice

Zubeen Garg Murder Case: Fast-Track Court Appointed for Day-to-Day Trial in Assam

Guwahati, March 20, 2026: In a significant development in the high-profile Zubeen Garg murder case, the Gauhati High Court has nominated District Judge Sharmila Bhuyan to preside over an exclusive fast-track sessions court. This dedicated court will handle day-to-day trial proceedings to ensure swift justice for the demise of the beloved Assamese cultural icon Zubeen Garg.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to his X handle to express gratitude to Justice Ashutosh Kumar, Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, for approving the nomination. He described the move as a “significant milestone in our collective pursuit of justice in the beloved Zubeen Garg murder case.”

CM Sarma wrote: “The Hon’ble Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court has been pleased to nominate Smt. Sharmila Bhuyan, presently serving as District Judge, Baksa, to preside over an exclusive fast-track sessions court for conducting day-to-day trial proceedings in this matter. This decisive step will greatly expedite the judicial process and reinforce our commitment to ensuring timely justice.”

The Assam Government had earlier decided in February to request a fast-track court for the trial, invoking provisions under Section 346(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. The cabinet approved constituting a dedicated sessions court, citing the case’s sensitivity and its implications for public order and governance credibility.

Zubeen Garg, the legendary singer known for hits like “Ya Ali” and his immense contribution to Assamese and Bollywood music, passed away on September 19, 2025, in Singapore. He was 52. According to Singapore authorities and coroner’s court findings, Zubeen Garg drowned in the waters off Lazarus Island during a yacht party. Reports indicate he was severely intoxicated, with a high blood alcohol level, and had declined a life jacket after initially wearing one. Singapore police ruled out foul play, attributing the death to drowning amid intoxication.

However, in Assam, the case has been treated as a murder. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma previously described it as a “plain and simple murder” in the state assembly, with an SIT probing the matter and murder charges filed against several accused. The family of Zubeen Garg had urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a special court, expedited trial in Assam, and diplomatic intervention.

This latest step toward a fast-track trial underscores the Assam Government’s push for quick resolution in the Zubeen Garg case, which has deeply affected fans and the cultural landscape of the Northeast. The dedicated court is expected to accelerate proceedings and deliver justice promptly.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Zubeen Garg murder case and related developments.