Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi has accused the state government of creating obstacles for individuals wishing to pay tribute to the late singer Zubeen Garg. These alleged hindrances occurred during a candlelight march organized by the Congress party to demand justice for the beloved artist.
Gogoi stated, “In Assam, people wish to pay tribute to Zubeen Garg, but the state government has been attempting to undermine this call for justice over the past few days. The government is creating various obstacles for his supporters who seek to honour him. Despite this resistance, there is a strong sentiment among the people for justice for Zubeen Garg and an appeal for the government not to hinder their peaceful efforts.”
He further commented that the people of Assam are still deeply affected by the loss of Zubeen Garg, whom he described as a true leader of Assamese society.
The remarks were made as fans and political figures gathered in Guwahati to offer tributes, marking one month since Garg’s passing in Singapore on September 19. Many fans and prominent individuals paid their respects to the late singer.
Gogoi urged the government to ensure a thorough investigation into the accusations and to deliver justice.
He added, “People of Assam are still grieving; they miss Zubeen Garg tremendously. They miss his leadership, his courage… especially today, at this time, we need someone to lead the Assamese society the way Zubeen Garg did. Although he was apolitical, he was undoubtedly a leader of Assamese society, and we miss his guidance…”
Zubeen Garg passed away in Singapore on September 19, reportedly while swimming, just a day before he was scheduled to perform at the Northeast India Festival.
An investigation by the SIT/CID team has led to the arrest of seven individuals. These include the event organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, Garg’s manager Siddharth Sharma, his cousin Sandipan Garg (a suspended APS officer), bandmate Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, co-singer Amritprava Mahanta, and two PSOs, Nandeswar Bora and Paresh Baishya.