Investigation into Zubeen Garg's Mysterious Death Unfolds

Zubeen Garg, a prominent Assamese singer and cultural icon, died under mysterious circumstances on September 19, 2025, while swimming off Lazarus Island in Singapore during the North East India Festival. Initial reports indicated that he drowned, but subsequent developments have raised serious questions about the nature of his death. Following his passing, the Assam government established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident, leading to multiple arrests and allegations of foul play.

Tragedy to murder conspiracy: Curious case of Zubeen Garg’s death

Four individuals have been arrested in connection with Garg's death: Siddharth Sharma, Garg's manager; Shyamkanu Mahanta, the festival organizer; and two band members, Shekhar Jyoti Goswami and Amritprabha Mahanta. The arrests occurred after Goswami alleged that Garg was poisoned and that the accused conspired to present his death as an accident. According to police documents, Goswami claimed that Sharma forcibly took control of the yacht, dismissed Garg's critical condition as "acid reflux," and shouted "Jabo de, jabo de" (let him go) as Garg struggled in the water.

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In response to the public outcry and the gravity of the allegations, the Assam government appointed a one-man judicial commission led by retired Gauhati High Court judge Soumitra Saikia. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the importance of cooperation from the Assamese community in Singapore, urging witnesses to come forward. The SIT is also awaiting a viscera report from New Delhi, expected on October 10, which may provide further insights into the circumstances surrounding Garg's death.

Tragedy to murder conspiracy: Curious case of Zubeen Garg’s death

The death of Zubeen Garg has sparked widespread grief and anger among his fans and the Assamese community. Thousands attended his cremation, and public memorials have been held in his honor. Garg's wife, Garima Saikia Garg, has expressed her trust in the investigation, stating that she returned the autopsy report to the authorities, emphasizing the need for justice. She also questioned the timing of Goswami's allegations, asking why he did not come forward sooner.

WION

While the Singapore police initially ruled out foul play, the ongoing investigation has revealed inconsistencies in witness statements and raised suspicions about the actions of those present during the incident. The SIT has summoned several individuals associated with Garg, including members of the Assamese diaspora in Singapore, to clarify their roles and gather more evidence.

The Hindu

• “I trust in the legal system to deliver justice for him,” Ms.” — Garima Saikia Garg, Zubeen Garg's wife

The Hindu

• “If Shekhar had known it, why did he hide it for so long?” — Garima Saikia Garg, questioning bandmate's timing of allegations

WION

• “The role of the police is to record statements in the case diary, and the investigation will determine whether an accused is trying to defend himself or mislead the probe team,” he said.” — Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief Minister of Assam

The Hindu

As the investigation continues, the public remains hopeful for clarity and accountability in a case that has deeply affected the cultural landscape of Assam and the broader Indian music community.

The Hindu