Chief Minister Discusses Zubeen Garg Case and Witness Testimonies
Key Developments in the Zubeen Garg Case
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
Guwahati, Nov 6: On Friday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the media regarding the ongoing Zubeen Garg death case, highlighting that 160 witnesses did not mention Amritprabha Mahanta during court proceedings, as noted in the Gauhati High Court's bail order.
Sarma explained that witness statements given to investigative bodies may differ from what they say in court.
“Justice Pranjal Das remarked that 160 witnesses did not name Amritprabha. This judgment is accessible on the High Court's website. I am genuinely surprised. They had mentioned her name in our presence. It raises questions about the witnesses,” the Chief Minister stated.
He also pointed out a cultural figure's testimony, which suggested that Zubeen was partly to blame for the incident and should not have been present.
“This individual, from a cultural background, informed me this morning that the protest leader claimed in court that Zubeen was also at fault. Witnesses often say one thing on camera and another in court,” Sarma remarked.
Addressing concerns about the judicial process, the Chief Minister emphasized that questioning the integrity of the High Court and Supreme Court is concerning, asserting that the State Government holds the judiciary in high regard.
“Doubting the Supreme Court indicates a lack of respect. Our government respects both the High Court and the Supreme Court. Those who question the process are attempting to obstruct justice. Regardless of whether a ruling is favorable or not, we must honor the court's decisions,” he stated.
Sarma reiterated a point made in the Assam Legislative Assembly, clarifying that there is no expectation for the court to accept everything the Chief Minister states.
“The High Court operates independently of the government. Those who raise such issues do not grasp the essence of Indian democracy. The Chief Minister is part of the executive, while the High Court and Supreme Court represent the judiciary,” he explained.
He added that approximately 150 witnesses remain to be examined in this case.
Regarding the accused Shyamkanu Mahanta, Sarma noted that the Supreme Court has not yet granted him bail, with the matter postponed until November 30.