SIT Records Statements of Zubeen Garg’s Wife and Sister in Ongoing Death Investigation

The death of renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore on September 19, 2025, while reportedly swimming during the North East India Festival, has triggered a comprehensive investigation involving multiple authorities and agencies. Following the incident, over 60 FIRs were filed across Assam, naming festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Garg’s manager Siddharth Sharma, and band members Shekharjyoti Goswami and Amritprabha Mahanta, among others. In response to the magnitude of the case and the public attention surrounding it, the Assam Criminal Investigation Department (CID) took over the probe to ensure thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the singer’s untimely demise.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed for this high-profile case has been actively collecting evidence, recording witness statements, and conducting inquiries to piece together the sequence of events that culminated in Garg’s death. On Saturday, October 4, investigating officer Moramee Das confirmed that the SIT had recorded statements from Garg’s immediate family, including his wife, Garima Saikia Garg, and his sister, Palmee Borthakur. Speaking to the media, Das clarified that these statements were part of ongoing proceedings, and further comments could not be made as the investigation is still underway. The SIT’s approach emphasizes meticulous documentation of both testimonial and material evidence, aiming to establish a comprehensive and accurate understanding of the incident.

The investigation has also included the arrest and remanding of key individuals linked to the event. Authorities have detained the festival organiser, Garg’s manager, and the two band members, all of whom have been remanded to 14 days of police custody. This step ensures that investigators have the opportunity to examine their involvement, gather additional evidence, and prevent tampering or interference with the ongoing inquiry. The SIT continues to pursue further leads, including additional witness testimonies and forensic analysis, to ascertain whether negligence, foul play, or other external factors contributed to the tragedy.

Simultaneously, the Assam Governor has established a One-Man Commission of Inquiry to provide an additional layer of investigation and public accountability. Headed by Justice Soumitra Saikia of the Gauhati High Court, the commission was notified under Section 3 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952, on October 3. The commission’s mandate is broad, encompassing the examination of events before and after Garg’s death, identifying lapses or negligence by individuals or authorities, and investigating potential external factors, foul play, or conspiracy. This independent inquiry aims to complement the SIT’s ongoing investigation and ensure transparency and credibility in addressing public concerns.

The formation of both the SIT and the One-Man Commission underscores the significance of the case and the widespread impact of Garg’s death on the Assamese community and the public at large. Authorities are navigating a complex investigative landscape, balancing technical, legal, and procedural aspects to uncover the truth. The SIT’s role includes analyzing forensic evidence, reviewing communications and travel arrangements, and corroborating eyewitness accounts to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the singer’s passing. Meanwhile, the commission provides oversight and ensures that systemic issues, administrative lapses, or any deliberate wrongdoing are thoroughly scrutinized.

In summary, Zubeen Garg’s tragic and untimely death has prompted a multi-faceted investigation involving the Assam CID, a dedicated SIT, and a One-Man Commission of Inquiry. The SIT has recorded key statements from Garg’s family and detained primary individuals connected to the festival and event management. The ongoing probe seeks to establish an accurate timeline, determine responsibility, and uncover any external factors or negligence. The One-Man Commission, led by Justice Soumitra Saikia, further ensures accountability, transparency, and public confidence. Collectively, these efforts aim to deliver justice, clarify the circumstances of the singer’s death, and uphold legal and ethical standards in the investigation.