The death of Assamese cultural icon Zubeen Garg in Singapore on September 19, 2025, has become a focal point of intense scrutiny and public emotion in Assam. The singer, songwriter, actor, and filmmaker, known for his work in multiple languages, passed away at the age of 52 while visiting Singapore as a cultural ambassador for the North East India Festival.
Initial reports suggested Garg died in a scuba diving accident. However, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma later stated that the singer died while swimming in the sea without a life jacket and that Singaporean authorities would question those who accompanied him. The death certificate issued by Singapore authorities cited the cause of death as drowning.
Garg's wife, Garima Saikia Garg, has publicly alleged that her husband's death was a result of negligence. She has questioned the lack of adequate medical assistance and security provided by the organizers of the North East India Festival, as well as the actions of Garg's manager, Siddharth Sharma. Garima stated that Sharma was aware of Garg's medical history, including a seizure he suffered in 2022 that resulted in a head injury, and that he was on medication for this condition. She also questioned why Sharma and others did not help Garg when he appeared tired in videos taken before the swimming incident.
"We suspect everyone who was with him," Garima Saikia Garg told NDTV, reflecting the family's deep concern and desire for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Zubeen's death.
Following Garg's death, multiple complaints were filed with police, naming Shyamkanu Mahanta, the chief organizer of the North East India Festival, and Siddharth Sharma, Garg's manager, accusing them of negligence and mismanagement. Authorities have taken these accusations seriously, with Chief Minister Sarma stating that people should not vote for the ruling BJP in 2026 if the government fails to deliver justice in this case.
Amidst the grief and allegations, the Assam government ordered a second autopsy on Garg's body and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the circumstances leading to his death. Several individuals, including Garg's musicians, have been arrested in connection with the case. A SIT team also visited Garg's residence to gather information and record statements from family members.
Zubeen Garg's death has brought renewed attention to seizure disorders. Neurosurgeon Dr. Jayakrishnan A.V. emphasized the importance of medication and lifestyle management in preventing seizures. He also noted that epilepsy often comes with additional challenges, such as a higher likelihood of experiencing depression and anxiety.
The singer's death has triggered a wave of grief and anger in Assam, with fans and well-wishers expressing their sorrow and demanding accountability. Garg's body was flown back to Guwahati, where thousands gathered to pay their last respects. He was cremated with full state honors on a 10-bigha plot beside the National Highway.
