Protesters detained during a human chain demonstration in Dispur, Guwahati, continued demanding justice for late Assamese singer Zubeen Garg from the premises of the 10th Assam Police Battalion in Kahilipara on Tuesday, October 20. The demonstrators urged the Assam government to challenge the bail granted to two accused in the case before the Supreme Court. They also demanded a supplementary chargesheet supported by strong evidence to strengthen the prosecution.
The protest was organised in front of the Assam Secretariat at Dispur following a call by Raijor Dal president and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi. The demonstrators said their detention would not weaken their demand for a thorough investigation and strict punishment for those found guilty in connection with Garg’s death.
Among those detained was advocate Anindita Das, who was allegedly assaulted by police during the demonstration. She reportedly sustained serious injuries and was admitted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), where she is receiving treatment.
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Key Facts About the Zubeen Garg Justice Protest
- Location: Dispur and Kahilipara, Guwahati, Assam
- Date: Tuesday, October 20
- Main demand: Justice for late singer Zubeen Garg
- Protest leader: Akhil Gogoi, Raijor Dal president and Sivasagar MLA
- Other organisers: Anindita Das, Marshall Baruah and Gyanashree Bora, among others
- Legal demand: Appeal before the Supreme Court against bail granted to two accused
- Additional demand: Filing of a supplementary chargesheet supported by strong evidence
- Injured protester: Advocate Anindita Das, admitted to GMCH
Protesters Demand Stronger Investigation
Following the demonstration, the organisers submitted a memorandum addressed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The memorandum outlined several demands concerning the investigation and ongoing legal proceedings in the Zubeen Garg death case.
The organisers called for a comprehensive investigation and strict punishment for anyone found guilty. They also urged the government and police administration to ensure that the prosecution presents sufficient evidence to prevent weaknesses in the case from affecting the legal proceedings.
Furthermore, the memorandum expressed concern over alleged shortcomings in the existing chargesheet. According to the organisers, these concerns have attracted public criticism and raised questions among sections of the public about the progress and seriousness of the investigation.
The protesters called on the state government to address these concerns by submitting a supplementary chargesheet containing strong supporting evidence.
Supreme Court Appeal Sought Over Bail Orders
Another major demand concerns the bail granted by the Gauhati High Court to two accused, Amritprabha Mahanta and Sandipan Garg. Both have been released from custody following the court’s order.
The organisers urged the Assam government to approach the Supreme Court and challenge the bail decisions through the strongest available legal remedies. They described the releases as a source of concern and anger among sections of the public seeking justice for the singer.
The memorandum also referred to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s statement in the Assam Assembly describing Zubeen Garg’s death as a planned murder. Citing this statement, the organisers argued that the investigation and prosecution should be supported by compelling evidence.
They called for the supplementary chargesheet to be filed at the earliest to strengthen the prosecution’s position and address questions surrounding the case.
Detained Protesters Continue Raising Slogans
Despite their detention, the demonstrators continued raising slogans from inside the 10th Assam Police Battalion premises at Kahilipara. They reiterated that they would continue pressing for accountability and justice for the late singer.
The protest was organised by Akhil Gogoi, Anindita Das, Marshall Baruah, Gyanashree Bora and others. Their demands focused on the investigation, the prosecution’s evidence and the government’s response to the bail orders.
The incident involving advocate Anindita Das has also drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding the police action. The allegation that she was beaten during the protest remains an allegation and should be assessed through the appropriate inquiry.
Why the Case Matters to Assam
Zubeen Garg was a prominent figure in Assamese music and culture. His death has generated widespread public concern across Assam, with demands for accountability and a transparent investigation.
Dispur, which houses the Assam Secretariat and other important government institutions, has become a focal point for demonstrations directed at the state government. The latest protest reflects continuing public pressure on the authorities to address concerns about the investigation and legal proceedings.
The organisers said the people of Assam would not accept any compromise or negligence in the pursuit of justice. They urged the Chief Minister to consider their demands seriously and take prompt action within the legal framework.
Questions and Answers
What happened in Guwahati on October 20?
Protesters demanding justice for Zubeen Garg were detained during a human chain demonstration in Dispur and continued raising slogans at the 10th Assam Police Battalion premises in Kahilipara.
Who organised the demonstration?
The protest was organised at the call of Raijor Dal president and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi, along with Anindita Das, Marshall Baruah, Gyanashree Bora and others.
What are the protesters demanding?
They want a thorough investigation, a supplementary chargesheet backed by strong evidence and a Supreme Court appeal against the bail granted to two accused.
Which two accused were granted bail?
Amritprabha Mahanta and Sandipan Garg were granted bail by the Gauhati High Court and subsequently released from custody.
What happened to advocate Anindita Das?
She was allegedly assaulted by police during the demonstration and sustained serious injuries. She was admitted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
What happens next in the case?
The organisers are urging the Assam government to pursue further legal action and strengthen the prosecution. Any subsequent action will depend on decisions by the relevant authorities and courts.
The protesters have reiterated that they will continue seeking justice for Zubeen Garg and demanding accountability through legal and democratic means.
