Guwahati: Emotions are running high near the site of the proposed Zubeen Kshetra (Memorial Site), as local residents have strongly and publicly urged authorities to uphold sanctity and transparency in the project’s development. Gathering to express both deep devotion to the musician Zubeen Garg and significant concern over recent developments, locals chanted slogans like “Joi Zubeen Da” and “Let there be no politics in Zubeen Kshetra,” reiterating that Garg’s cultural legacy must be honoured free from political interference or controversy.
Community members also voiced sharp criticism against those allegedly violating the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) set by the administration for the site. One resident warned that if the authorities fail to enforce order and take action against continuing SOP violations, the public will be compelled to intervene. Furthermore, locals appealed for an immediate end to activities such as alcohol and cannabis consumption near the memorial, asserting that such behaviour deeply disrespects the spiritual and cultural significance of the space.
A more serious accusation surfaced as residents alleged encroachment on nearby land. A local leader specifically claimed, “We know that Minister Ashok Singhal has taken control of nearby land. We appeal to him to vacate that land immediately.” According to local estimates, the full construction of the Zubeen Kshetra will require over 50 bighas of land, and residents emphatically stated that previous plans to construct commercial complexes or ‘atrālika’ (high-rise buildings) in the area must be scrapped to ensure the memorial’s sanctity is preserved. Following these protests, locals have collectively resolved to submit a formal memorandum to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, demanding the release of the alleged encroached land and that the site be developed exclusively for the purpose of preserving Zubeen Garg’s cultural legacy.
