Guwahati, March 16: Utpal Sarma has criticised the Assam government over the delay in the construction of ‘Zubeen Kshetra’, a memorial site associated with late singer Zubeen Garg.
Speaking to reporters in Morigaon, the All Assam Students’ Union leader said that even six months after the singer’s demise, no significant progress had been made in developing the memorial site. He described the situation as unfortunate and said it had disappointed many people across the state.
Sarma alleged that although the government had formed a committee to oversee the construction of Zubeen Kshetra, the public remained unaware of the committee’s activities or the proposals it had submitted. He also pointed out that after rainfall, the tribute site often becomes waterlogged, which he said reflects negligence and a lack of proper planning.
With the notification for the upcoming national elections already issued, Sarma warned that authorities should not allow the project to be delayed citing the election process or administrative constraints. He urged the government to ensure that work on the memorial continues without interruption.
The AASU president also cautioned political parties against using the legacy of Zubeen Garg as an election issue. He said the singer should not be turned into a political tool, adding that attempts to exploit his legacy for political gain would ultimately backfire.
Sarma further called on the Special Investigation Team and the government to expedite the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death and ensure strict punishment for anyone found responsible.
In addition, he referred to the issue concerning the opening of a bank account for Shyamkanu Mahanta and urged authorities to address related concerns.
He also appealed to the government to make temporary arrangements at the memorial site if permanent construction has not yet begun, so that people can visit and pay their respects without inconvenience during the upcoming monsoon season.
