Amidst the ongoing investigation into the death of renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore, his cousin, Sandipan Garg, an Assam Police Service (APS) officer, has been arrested. Sandipan was reportedly with Zubeen during the Singapore trip and was present at the yacht party preceding the singer's death. The arrest marks the fifth major detention in the case.
Zubeen Garg passed away at the age of 52 following what was initially reported as a tragic scuba diving accident in Singapore. However, circumstances surrounding his death have been under scrutiny, prompting a thorough investigation. Zubeen's wife, Garima Saikia Garg, and sister, Palme Borthakur, have publicly sought clarity and demanded justice, expressing doubts about the initial reports.
The Assam government has responded to the concerns by forming a nine-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure a transparent probe. Prior to Sandipan's arrest, the SIT had already apprehended event organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, Zubeen's manager Siddharth Sharma, drummer Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, and co-singer Amritprabha Mahanta.
Conflicting reports and allegations have surfaced during the investigation. Shekhar Jyoti Goswami alleged that Zubeen's manager, Siddharth Sharma, and festival organizer, Shyamkanu Mahanta, may have been involved in poisoning the singer. Goswami claimed that Sharma dismissed visible signs of distress, such as frothing from Zubeen's mouth and nose, attributing it to acid reflux and delaying medical assistance.
Adding to the complexity, the All Assam Lawyers' Association has urged its members not to represent individuals accused in connection with Zubeen's death, reflecting the public sentiment and demand for justice.
Zubeen Garg, born on November 18, 1972, was a prominent figure in the Assamese and Bollywood music industries. He was known for his versatility and soulful voice, delivering numerous hits throughout his career. Some of his most memorable songs include "Ya Ali," the Assamese folk classic "Bohag Bihu," and "Dil Tu Hi Bataa" from the Bollywood film "Krrish 3". He is survived by his wife, Garima Saikia, a fashion designer and film producer, and their son, Gautam Garg.
Sandipan Garg is scheduled to be produced in court, and further details of the investigation are currently under wraps. The investigation is ongoing.
