Assam CM Alleges Conspiracy in Zubeen Garg's Death Ahead of Chargesheet Submission

Allegations of Conspiracy Surrounding Zubeen Garg's Death

Guwahati, Nov 18: As the Special Investigation Team (SIT) prepares to submit its chargesheet regarding the circumstances surrounding the death of cultural icon Zubeen Garg, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has accused individuals of orchestrating a conspiracy to keep the singer intoxicated for financial gain.

During a press conference after donating blood in honor of Garg’s 53rd birthday, Sarma stated, “The investigation suggests that the singer was not an alcoholic and was coerced into drinking by those close to him.”

The Chief Minister elaborated that evidence indicates Garg “disliked alcohol but was forced to consume it, allowing others to manipulate him.”

Sarma claimed this manipulation was aimed at exploiting Garg’s finances and assets.

“The forthcoming chargesheet will detail these findings. Alcohol was not part of Zubeen’s identity; he was made to drink by those who sought to use him,” he remarked, recalling that during his interactions with Garg, the singer was never under the influence.

He criticized the narrative that promotes alcohol as a tribute to the late musician, stating, “After his passing, some suggested that he should be honored with alcohol. This is entirely false. Garg’s true legacy is in his music and humanitarian efforts.”

Sarma encouraged the youth to commemorate Garg through acts of social service, such as blood donations and planting his favorite nahor saplings.

These developments coincide with the Ministry of Home Affairs granting the necessary sanction under Section 208 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which is essential for prosecuting offenses committed abroad. The alleged incident occurred in Singapore, and without this approval, the SIT could not legally proceed with the chargesheet.

With the sanction now in place, SIT chief Munna Prasad Gupta announced that the team aims to finalize the chargesheet by December 10.

Investigators have already gathered forensic evidence, collaborated with Singaporean authorities, and interviewed over 100 witnesses.

In the lead-up to the chargesheet filing, Sarma's comments today mark his second public disclosure regarding the case. Previously, on November 3, he referred to the circumstances surrounding Garg’s death as a “murder” during an event in Jamugurihat.