Assam CM Directs CID Investigation into FIRs Related to Zubeen Garg’s Death

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Saturday that multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) registered in connection with the untimely demise of eminent singer Zubeen Garg will be consolidated and investigated by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). This step comes as part of the government’s effort to ensure a thorough and coordinated investigation into the circumstances surrounding the singer’s sudden death. The announcement underscores the state administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, addressing concerns raised by various FIRs filed in different jurisdictions following the incident.

The FIRs name North East India Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta and Zubeen Garg’s manager Sidharth Sarma, highlighting the involvement of individuals connected to the singer’s professional and personal engagements at the time of his death. Chief Minister Sarma, in a post on social media platform X, stated that multiple FIRs have been lodged against both Shyamkanu Mahanta and Sidharth Sarma in relation to the unfortunate passing of Zubeen Garg. He directed the Assam Police, under the supervision of the Director General of Police, to transfer all FIRs to the CID and to register a consolidated case for a comprehensive investigation. By consolidating the FIRs, the administration aims to streamline the investigative process, avoid duplication of effort, and ensure that all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined.

According to reports, the singer, renowned for his contributions to Assamese music, cinema, and culture, was on a yacht in Singapore with a few Assamese residents and members of his team at the time of the incident. While swimming, he reportedly suffered from breathlessness and a seizure. Immediate attempts were made to provide him with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and he was rushed to Singapore General Hospital. Despite the swift medical intervention, he was declared dead at approximately 2:50 pm IST on Friday. The suddenness of his death shocked his fans, the Assamese community, and the cultural fraternity, creating widespread grief and concern.

Zubeen Garg, aged 52, was not only a celebrated singer but also a filmmaker and cultural icon. Over his career spanning several decades, he had contributed immensely to Assamese music and cinema, gaining recognition both nationally and internationally. His death in Singapore, while engaged in a recreational activity, prompted immediate questions and legal actions, including the filing of multiple FIRs in Assam. The FIRs reflect concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death, including the roles of individuals associated with his professional engagements at the festival in Singapore.

The Chief Minister’s directive to consolidate the FIRs under the CID ensures that the investigation will be conducted by a specialized agency with the necessary expertise to handle complex cases. This move is also aimed at preventing jurisdictional conflicts and ensuring that the investigation is impartial, thorough, and transparent. By entrusting the CID with the consolidated case, the state administration intends to address public concern and provide clarity regarding the circumstances of Zubeen Garg’s sudden demise.

In conclusion, the consolidation of FIRs under the CID represents a decisive step by the Assam government to investigate the untimely death of Zubeen Garg comprehensively. The singer’s sudden passing on a yacht in Singapore, despite immediate medical attention, has left a void in Assam’s cultural landscape. The CID-led investigation is expected to examine all relevant aspects, including the roles of festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta and manager Sidharth Sarma, ensuring accountability and delivering answers to the public and the singer’s family.