Zubeen Garg Case: Charge Framing Delayed as Prosecution Prepares

Update on Zubeen Garg Death Case

Guwahati, Jan 11: During a press briefing on Sunday, Ziaul Kamar, the newly appointed Special Public Prosecutor (SPP), indicated that the framing of charges in the Zubeen Garg death case is unlikely to occur at the upcoming hearing set for January 17. This delay is attributed to the recent formation of the prosecution team and the extensive volume of case documentation that requires thorough examination.

Kamar emphasized the necessity for the prosecution to have sufficient time to delve into the details of the case prior to advancing to the charge-framing phase.

He stated, “The next hearing is scheduled for January 17, but it may not be feasible to proceed with charge hearings at that time, as our team has only recently been established. We need time to grasp the complexities and specifics of the case.”

As the head of the prosecution, Kamar noted that he has not yet received all pertinent case files.

“I can only commence once I have all the necessary documents. There are also bail petitions, including those concerning Amritprava Mahanta, which are part of the ongoing proceedings,” he explained.

Regarding the delay, Kamar pointed out that the charge sheet alone exceeds 300 pages and is accompanied by nearly 3,000 supporting documents.

“We can only comprehend the case after meticulously reviewing all these materials,” he added, asserting that while the prosecution is ready to tackle legal challenges, it must adhere strictly to legal protocols.

Kamar also highlighted structural challenges in the proceedings, noting that each accused has their own legal representation, while the prosecution must present a unified case.

“This could be seen as a legal hurdle, but we have navigated similar situations in the past and will do so again,” he affirmed.

When asked about the potential for adding charges, Kamar warned against oversimplifying the process.

“Incorporating additional sections is not the primary challenge. The real difficulty lies in providing evidence to the court that supports those sections. Mere narratives are insufficient; everything must be substantiated by tangible proof,” he stated.

Kamar mentioned that he has reviewed the court order dated January 3, 2026, which indicates that several petitions remain unresolved. He noted that the district public prosecutor has requested additional time to submit objections, as documented in the order sheet.

“We can only respond effectively after reviewing the complete record. The next hearing is on January 17, and we will follow the court’s directives after hearing both parties,” he said.

Kamar described the responsibility given to him by the State government as significant and paid homage to Garg while outlining the extensive work ahead.

He revealed that the prosecution team consists of six members, including himself, all of whom are seasoned advocates.

“They are capable lawyers whom I know personally. We aim to advance the case collaboratively, but it will demand sustained and focused effort,” he remarked.

Kamar indicated that until the so-called “document-related hurdles” are resolved, it would be challenging for the case to progress decisively.

He added that while the exact role of the district sessions court public prosecutor will become clearer over time, he plans to seek assistance as needed.

Regarding the role of informants, Kamar clarified that while they cannot legally conduct the case, they can provide support to the prosecution.

“Informants can aid in the process, but the case must proceed strictly in accordance with established legal procedures,” he concluded.