Witnesses Testify in Zubeen Garg's Death Inquiry: Alcohol Consumption Disputed

In the ongoing inquiry into Zubeen Garg's death, witnesses at the Singapore Coroner’s Court have disputed claims of alcohol consumption prior to his drowning. Testimonies reveal that while some saw him sipping beer, others noted he did not appear intoxicated. The inquiry continues as further evidence is expected, contrasting earlier police reports indicating high blood alcohol levels. Garg's wife, Garima, also made a hospital visit on their anniversary, highlighting her emotional recovery process. This case remains a focal point of public interest as it unfolds.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 4, 2026, 18:27 IST

Testimonies from the Singapore Coroner’s Court

Guwahati, Feb 4: During the second session of the inquiry at the Singapore Coroner’s Court regarding the death of renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, seven witnesses stated that the artist did not exhibit any signs of alcohol consumption upon his arrival at Capo Bay Marina on the day he passed away.

As reported by a Singaporean news outlet, six of the seven witnesses who provided in-person testimonies were present on the yacht with Garg on September 19, 2025, the day of his drowning.

While their accounts generally aligned with the events leading to his tragic swim, there were discrepancies regarding whether Garg had been drinking prior to boarding the yacht.

Several witnesses noted that Garg was seen occasionally sipping from a large beer can during the boat ride, with no other alcoholic beverages noted. One witness remarked that Garg did not seem intoxicated and was only taking small sips. Another witness mentioned hearing an order for whisky at a bar before boarding but could not confirm if Garg had consumed any.

Only one individual claimed that Garg appeared somewhat tipsy when he boarded the yacht.

Video evidence presented in court reportedly showed Garg entering the water for the first time while wearing a life jacket. Some witnesses commented that the jacket seemed oversized and that he later took it off while swimming.

After his swim, Garg returned to a kayak near the yacht, appearing fatigued according to multiple witnesses. One witness, who had organized the outing, testified that he tried to put a life jacket on Garg before his second swim, but the singer declined, stating, “I have never worn it before. I don’t like it.”

Witnesses further recounted that Garg swam quickly towards the shore, encouraging others to follow him, and claimed he had taught two members of the group how to swim.

The inquiry is ongoing, with additional evidence anticipated. Garg’s uncle, Manoj Borthakur, and nephew, Rahul Gautam Sharma, were present at the February 3 hearing.

However, the testimonies from this session contrast with earlier evidence presented by investigators. The Singapore Police had previously informed the court that toxicology reports indicated Garg's blood alcohol level was significantly above the legal limit when he entered the water.

This second hearing follows the initial session on January 14, where police testimony suggested that the 53-year-old artist was heavily intoxicated and not wearing a life jacket at the time of his drowning.

During the first hearing, Assistant Superintendent of Police David Lim stated that Garg had consumed alcohol and had repeatedly refused to wear a life vest before entering the water.

In related news, Garima Saikia Garg, the late singer's wife, visited Peerless Hospital on Wednesday, coinciding with their wedding anniversary.

“She is not ill. She came here as she was feeling a little weak. But there is no need for her to get admitted. A four-member team of doctors is looking after her health,” a doctor stated.

Hospital officials also mentioned that the couple had previously engaged in charitable activities, such as providing free health check-ups for the elderly. “Following the same practice, Garima came today. All her check-ups went smoothly,” the doctor added, noting that she has experienced a significant personal loss and will need time to heal emotionally.