Accidental Drowning Confirmed in Zubeen Garg's Death by Singapore Coroner

Coroner's Verdict on Zubeen Garg's Tragic Death

Singapore, March 25: The coroner's court in Singapore has determined that the passing of renowned Assamese artist Zubeen Garg was due to accidental drowning, corroborating the Police Coast Guard's (PCG) findings that ruled out any foul play.

As reported by Channel News Asia (CNA), State Coroner Adam Nakhoda delivered the verdict on Wednesday, characterizing the incident as a “tragic and unfortunate accidental drowning.”

Nakhoda stated, “Given that the police have confirmed there was no foul play and the public prosecutor agrees, it would be inappropriate for the coroner to conclude that any criminal acts occurred.”

The court highlighted that there was no evidence indicating that anyone had coerced or pushed the singer into the water. Furthermore, no charges have been filed against anyone, and there was no basis for claims that other swimmers had intentionally held Garg underwater.

In response to concerns from his wife, Garima Saikia Garg, the coroner noted that the PCG conducted a thorough investigation. He clarified that the determination of criminal liability is beyond the coroner's scope and falls to prosecutorial authorities.

The ruling indicated that Garg had willingly entered the water on both occasions, and those present had made efforts to assist him as best as they could.

It was also noted that the singer had consumed alcohol before the incident, which likely impaired his judgment. Nakhoda remarked, “Mr. Garg was intoxicated, which likely influenced his decision not to wear a life jacket.”

The court acknowledged Garg's medical history, which included hypertension and epilepsy, with his last known seizure occurring in 2024. While the possibility of a seizure prior to the drowning was not dismissed, the evidence was deemed insufficient to confirm this.

Moreover, the coroner found nothing suspicious regarding the invitation extended to Garg for his visit to Singapore, noting that members of the Assam Association Singapore had made sincere efforts to facilitate his trip.

This ruling comes in light of earlier concerns raised by Garg's family regarding the circumstances of his death, particularly whether he had entered the water voluntarily.

In a related development, legal proceedings are ongoing in Assam, where the Gauhati High Court has established a fast-track court to address the case. Judge Sharmila Bhuyan has been appointed to oversee the proceedings involving individuals who were on the yacht during the incident.