The investigation into the death of Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg continues, with significant developments unfolding as authorities seek to determine the circumstances surrounding his demise in Singapore on September 19, 2025.
CID Summons and Questioning
On September 27, 2025, Assamese actress Nishita Goswami and Zubeen Garg's co-musician, Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, appeared before the Crime Investigation Department (CID) of Assam Police in Guwahati for questioning. Singer Amritprava Mahanta was also summoned. The CID is seeking key details about Zubeen's visit to Singapore and the events leading up to his death. Nishita Goswami had also attended the North East India Festival (NEIF) in Singapore, the same event Zubeen was there for. Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, who was previously detained and released, was directed to appear again for further interrogation.
Allegations of Negligence
Following her questioning, Nishita Goswami criticized Zubeen Garg's manager, Siddharth Sharma, holding him responsible for negligence. She stated that it was Sharma's responsibility to take care of Zubeen. She also expressed concern that fashion shows were still being held after Zubeen's death.
Raids and Seizures
Prior to these summons, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and CID conducted raids on September 25 at the residences of Shyamkanu Mahanta, the organizer of the North East India Festival; Siddharth Sharma, Zubeen Garg's manager; and Sekhar Jyoti Goswami. Several items were seized, including a pendrive, hard disk, computer CPU, and documents.
Lookout Notices Issued
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that lookout notices have been issued against Shyamkanu Mahanta and Siddharth Sharma. They have been instructed to appear before the CID in Guwahati by October 6, 2025, failing which, Assam Police will take necessary measures to ensure their return to the state. Sarma has assured the public that his government is committed to securing justice for Zubeen Garg. He stated that the government will not bow to pressure or political influence. Sarma also revealed that Mahanta's accounts, PAN card, and credit cards have been frozen.
Public Outrage and Government Response
Public outrage has grown, with allegations that Zubeen Garg was not properly cared for during the trip to Singapore. Fans have accused organizers, including Mahanta and Sharma, of prioritizing profits over the singer's health and safety. The Assam government has barred Mahanta and his organizations from hosting cultural events in the state.
Investigation Details
The CID has registered a case (no 18/2025) under Section 61(2)/105/106(1) of BNS, 2023, in connection with Zubeen Garg's death. A nine-member SIT, headed by CID Special DGP Munna Prasad Gupta, has been formed to investigate the death. The probe was prompted by public demand, allegations of foul play, and the need for transparency.
Conflicting Information
Initial reports suggested that Garg died during a scuba diving incident. However, his wife, Garima Saikia Garg, stated that he suffered a seizure while swimming at Singapore's Lazarus Island. According to the death certificate issued after the first autopsy in Singapore, drowning was the cause of death.
Zubeen Garg's death has sent shockwaves across Assam, and his final rites were carried out in his village on September 23, 2025, with hundreds in attendance.
