Controversial Writer Shikha Sarma Arrested for Defaming Late Singer Zubeen Garg on Social Media – Produced in Court Amid Bail Denial Allegations
Guwahati, Assam – In a development that has sparked widespread debate across Assam, controversial writer and social media commentator Shikha Sarma (also spelled Sikha Sarma or শিখা শৰ্মা) was arrested and produced before the court for allegedly posting highly defamatory and derogatory content on Facebook targeting the character and legacy of beloved Assamese singer Zubeen Garg.
The arrest came following a complaint lodged by Garima Saikia Garg, wife of the late cultural icon Zubeen Garg, with the Crime Branch of Guwahati Police. A separate FIR was also filed by members of the All Assam Zubeen Garg Fan Club at Dispur Police Station. Police registered the case under seven sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including provisions related to defamation, criminal intimidation, hate speech, and acts endangering public order (specifically Sections 152, 196, 299, 351, 352, 353, and 356).
Shikha Sarma was initially arrested from her residence in the Pathar Quarry area of Guwahati on January 19, 2026, and remanded to police custody. She was later shifted to Panbazar Women’s Police Station before being escorted to the court for further proceedings.
Court Production and Explosive Allegations
While being taken from Panbazar Women’s Police Station to the court premises, Shikha Sarma responded to journalists, notably answering questions in English. In the court area, she made serious accusations against the Congress party, claiming a political conspiracy was at play in denying her bail.
“Due to the Congress party’s conspiracy, I did not receive bail. Even though defamation cases are generally bailable, why was my case made non-bailable? I will provide all answers regarding what I wrote in court,” she reportedly stated.
This bold claim has added a political dimension to the already heated controversy surrounding the late singer’s legacy. Zubeen Garg, who passed away under tragic circumstances in Singapore in September 2025, remains a revered figure in Assamese culture, with ongoing investigations into his death fueling public emotions.
Shikha Sarma’s alleged posts reportedly questioned aspects related to Zubeen Garg’s death, demanded the release of accused individuals in the related case, and included objectionable remarks targeting not only the singer but also his family members, including his ailing father and sister. Garima Saikia Garg described the posts as amounting to character assassination, causing immense emotional distress to the bereaved family and tarnishing the singer’s reputation.
In her complaint, Garima emphasized that while the family initially ignored such content assuming it came from an unstable individual, the continuous nature of the remarks crossed all limits. She highlighted potential violations including defamation, criminal intimidation, hate speech, and communal provocation that could disturb law and order in the state.
Background of the Controversy
The episode unfolds against the backdrop of heightened sensitivity around Zubeen Garg’s demise. The Assam Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) has pursued the case aggressively, charging several individuals with serious offenses, including murder, in contrast to Singapore authorities’ findings of no foul play (attributing the death to drowning while intoxicated without a life jacket). This divergence has led to political debates, with opposition voices, including Congress leaders, questioning aspects of the probe.
Shikha Sarma’s social media activity, which included demands for releasing accused persons and critical comments on the circumstances, reportedly triggered outrage among fans and the public, leading to the swift legal action.
Following her arrest, Garima Saikia Garg publicly thanked the Assam Police, using hashtags like #JusticeForZubeenGarg to express support for the proceedings.
Key Details of the Case
- Arrest Location: Pathar Quarry, Guwahati (residence); later shifted to Panbazar Women’s Police Station.
- Court Production: Escorted to court amid media presence; responded to questions in English.
- Charges: Seven BNS sections invoked, making aspects non-bailable in this context.
- Accuser’s Response: Garima Saikia Garg highlighted family distress and called for strict action.
- Accused’s Defense: Shikha Sarma claims political interference (Congress conspiracy) in bail denial; promises to answer all allegations in court.
- Additional Complaints: Zubeen Garg Fan Club’s separate FIR at Dispur Police Station.
This case underscores the growing intersection of social media expression, celebrity legacy protection, and legal boundaries in Assam. As proceedings continue, it highlights debates over freedom of speech versus defamation, especially when involving public figures like Zubeen Garg, whose contributions to Assamese music and culture continue to inspire millions.
The court will now deliberate on bail and further investigation. Supporters of both sides continue to voice opinions on social platforms, with calls for justice and respect for the late singer’s memory dominating discussions.
