Himanta Biswa Sarma Announces Chargesheet in Zubeen Garg Death Case to Be Filed Within Three Months

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has assured that justice will be delivered in the investigation into the death of renowned singer Zubeen Garg, emphasizing that the chargesheet will be filed within the legally stipulated three-month period. Speaking to reporters in Dibrugarh on the sidelines of a government programme, Sarma stated that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is progressing “on expected lines” and that the investigation is being conducted thoroughly and meticulously to ensure that no lapses occur. He highlighted that multiple arrests have already been made in connection with the case, and all accused individuals will be presented before the court. The Chief Minister stressed that the government will not seek any delay in filing the chargesheet and that the police are duty-bound to ensure justice is served.

Sarma elaborated that the standard timeframe for submitting a chargesheet is three months, and he is confident that Assam Police will adhere strictly to this schedule. He emphasized the importance of due process, cautioning that emotions, while natural, must not override procedural integrity. The Chief Minister explained that if the investigation were perceived as rushed or incomplete, it could undermine public confidence and hamper judicial proceedings, making thoroughness essential.

Logistical challenges have emerged in the investigation because several members of the Assam Association in Singapore, who were with Zubeen Garg during his final moments, have yet to return to India, except for one individual, despite being summoned by the SIT. Sarma stated that authorities are actively working on arrangements to bring these witnesses back to India and stressed the need for patience in this process, asserting that impatience could jeopardize justice.

Addressing the question of whether Assam Police can travel to Singapore for the investigation, Sarma clarified that Indian investigators cannot conduct inquiries in another sovereign nation, just as foreign investigators cannot operate in India without permission. However, he expressed confidence that the Singapore Police will assist in the probe. Sarma highlighted that the key materials needed from Singapore include video footage from the hotel where Garg stayed, recordings from the yacht he was on, and statements from the two persons operating the yacht. Additionally, he noted that the forensic report from Singaporean authorities has already been shared with Assam Police, which will facilitate the preparation of the chargesheet.

The Chief Minister also revealed plans to meet the Singaporean ambassador to India later in the month to further strengthen cooperation and secure necessary support from Singaporean authorities. He stressed that Assam’s cordial relations with Singapore provide a strong foundation for such collaboration, reinforcing confidence that the investigation will proceed smoothly.

Sarma acknowledged the emotional intensity surrounding the case, noting that Zubeen Garg’s death had triggered widespread grief across Assam and beyond. He emphasized that investigators must remain objective and follow due process to ensure justice is served without bias or delay.

So far, five individuals have been arrested in connection with the case: Garg’s cousin Sandipan Garg, his manager Siddhartha Sharma, musician Shekharjyoti Goswami, singer Amritprava Mahanta, and North East India Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta. All remain in police custody. Zubeen Garg, one of Assam’s most celebrated cultural icons, tragically passed away on September 19 in Singapore while swimming, prompting a strong response of grief and concern among the public.

The Chief Minister’s statements underline a firm commitment to a transparent, thorough, and timely investigation, ensuring that justice is delivered in accordance with the law while maintaining diplomatic coordination and procedural rigor.