Guwahati: Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi has alleged that the state government is creating hurdles for people wishing to pay tribute to the singer Zubeen Garg. He claimed that supporters organising candlelight marches and memorial gatherings have faced “various obstacles” in recent days.
“People in Assam want to pay their respects to Zubeen Garg, but the government has been trying to undermine this call for justice,” Gogoi said. He maintained that the public sentiment remains strong, with many demanding clarity on the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death.
Zubeen Garg, one of Assam’s most celebrated cultural icons, passed away on September 19 in Singapore reportedly while swimming, a day before he was scheduled to perform at the Northeast India Festival. His passing has led to widespread mourning and continued calls for justice.
Thousands, including eminent personalities, have participated in memorial events across the state. Describing Garg as “a true leader of Assamese society,” Gogoi said the singer may not have been politically aligned, but he inspired unity and courage among people across the state.
“People of Assam are still grieving; they miss his voice and guidance,” Gogoi said, urging the government to ensure a transparent investigation.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the CID are currently probing the case. Seven individuals have been arrested so far, including festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Garg’s manager Siddharth Sharma, suspended APS officer and cousin Sandipan Garg, bandmate Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, co-singer Amritprava Mahanta, and PSOs Nandeswar Bora and Paresh Baishya.
Gogoi asserted that public demands must not be silenced. “This is about respect for Zubeen Garg and the people’s right to express their grief and love peacefully,” he added.
