GUWAHATI, Nov. 25: In a significant statement inside the Assam Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday categorically termed legendary singer Zubeen Garg’s death as “murder” and confirmed that a watertight chargesheet will be filed by next month.
The Chief Minister’s declaration came while addressing an adjournment motion moved by the Opposition, demanding a discussion on the “mysterious” circumstances surrounding the cultural icon’s death in Singapore on September 19.
“It is on record in the court that it (Zubeen Garg’s death) is a case of murder… I am saying this in the Assembly today and we will pursue the case,” Sarma stated. He further revealed, “We have noted who committed the murder… one person committed the act and others assisted. So, we have booked four to five people in the murder case.”
Sarma elaborated that the state police, after a preliminary probe, had no doubt that it was not a case of culpable homicide but murder. This led to the addition of Section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) — equivalent to murder — within three days of the singer’s passing.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Assam CID, which is leading the probe, has made significant progress. According to the CM, the SIT has so far arrested seven accused, who are currently in judicial custody, and recorded the statements of over 200 witnesses.
“A thorough probe is being conducted by the SIT, and a watertight chargesheet will be filed in the case next month,” Sarma assured the House. He added that after the chargesheet is submitted, the investigation would be extended to cover other aspects dating back to the pre-COVID period.
Earlier, the winter session began on a tense note as Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia moved the motion, questioning the government’s silence and its failure to provide adequate security for an artist of Zubeen’s stature during his Singapore visit.
In his response, the Chief Minister urged the Opposition not to play politics over the tragic incident. “We are not here to play politics in the name of Zubeen. If you want justice for our beloved Zubeen, then do not try to demoralise the SIT,” he appealed.
Sarma also questioned the Opposition’s approach, suggesting that their statements seemed to advocate for the accused. He emphasized that the government is fully committed to ensuring justice is served in the case.
