The Zubeen Garg death investigation has reached a critical stage as five individuals arrested in connection with the singer’s death are now in judicial custody. The Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Guwahati remanded them for 14 days after their police remand expired.
The accused include event organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, manager Siddhartha Sharma, cousin and Assam Police officer Sandipan Garg, and security officers Nandeswar Bora and Prabin Baishya.
The court ordered their transfer to Baksa Jail, located about 100 km from Guwahati, citing concerns for their safety due to limited prison crowding.
About Zubeen Garg: Assam’s Musical Icon
Zubeen Garg, aged 50, was a celebrated singer, composer, and actor whose work shaped Assamese music for decades. Known for his powerful voice and versatile repertoire, Garg had millions of fans across Northeast India and beyond. He performed in multiple languages including Assamese, Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil.
His sudden death by drowning in Singapore on September 19, 2025, shocked fans and the entertainment industry. The Zubeen Garg death investigation has since attracted widespread public attention. Many fans are closely monitoring updates, hoping for clarity and justice.
Assam Forms Special Investigation Team (SIT)
In response to the incident, Assam established a 10-member Special Investigation Team (SIT). The team is tasked with:
- Gathering evidence from Singapore and Assam
- Interviewing witnesses
- Collaborating with local and international authorities
- Ensuring transparency and accountability in the probe
The SIT’s objective is to reconstruct events leading to Garg’s death, determine whether negligence or foul play occurred, and identify all individuals involved.
International Cooperation with Singapore
Since the drowning occurred in Singapore, Assam authorities requested CCTV footage and other relevant evidence from Singaporean officials. The SIT confirmed that Singapore is reviewing the request. This cooperation is vital to piece together a complete timeline of events before Garg’s death.
Moreover, international collaboration ensures that the investigation maintains credibility and addresses all possible angles, including the presence of third-party individuals on the yacht.
Witness Statements Shed Light on Incident
The SIT recorded statements from key witnesses, including co-singer Satabdi Borah and three Assamese expatriates who were present during the yacht party. Witness accounts provide insights into Garg’s activities and interactions before the drowning incident.
Additionally, investigators are analyzing the sequence of events to confirm or refute reports of negligence or external interference. These statements will play a crucial role in any future court proceedings.
Arrests Linked to Financial Irregularities
Authorities also detained Garg’s two personal security officers for suspicious financial transactions. The SIT is investigating whether these transactions relate to the events surrounding his death.
Preliminary reports indicate that the officers transferred significant amounts of money shortly before the incident, prompting investigators to explore potential motives or connections with the drowning.
Legal Proceedings and Judicial Custody
The five arrested individuals remain in judicial custody for 14 days. Courts have emphasized ensuring their safety, which led to their placement in Baksa Jail. Assam police have stated that the custody period allows the SIT to thoroughly question the accused and gather additional evidence.
Lawyers and legal experts note that judicial custody is a common step in high-profile investigations, providing authorities time to strengthen their case while respecting legal procedures.
Timeline of Events
- September 19, 2025: Zubeen Garg drowned in Singapore.
- September 20, 2025: Assam Police launched the investigation.
- October 15, 2025: Five individuals were sent to judicial custody.
- Ongoing: SIT continues gathering evidence, recording witness statements, and collaborating with Singapore authorities.
Public Reaction and Industry Response
Fans across Assam and India have expressed grief and shock over Garg’s death. Social media platforms were flooded with condolences and tributes.
Music industry leaders have called for transparency and a fair investigation. Many have praised the Assam government’s proactive formation of the SIT to ensure justice.
Moreover, several local organizations are advocating for awareness about safety measures during overseas trips, especially for artists traveling abroad for performances.
Broader Implications for Assam
The incident has drawn attention to:
- Safety of citizens abroad: Highlighting the need for proper security measures for artists and professionals.
- Law enforcement efficiency: Demonstrating Assam Police’s coordination with international authorities.
- Public awareness: Reinforcing transparency and trust in the justice system through proactive updates.
By handling the case diligently, Assam aims to maintain its reputation for law enforcement responsiveness and public accountability.
Stay Updated
Stay informed about the Zubeen Garg death investigation by following verified news sources and Assam Police updates. Awareness ensures that public pressure supports a thorough and transparent investigation. Fans and citizens can also participate in discussions about artist safety, accountability, and justice.
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