Guwahati: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the death of singer Zubeen Garg has received assurance that crucial evidence from Singapore will be shared within 10 days. The update was confirmed by SIT Chief and Special DGP (CID) Munna Prasad Gupta during a press briefing today, following the team’s return from Singapore.
Gupta said his five-member team held a series of discussions with Singapore Police officials earlier this week. “They have agreed to cooperate as per government protocol to ensure the investigation concludes at the earliest,” he stated.
The SIT has specifically sought CCTV footage from the hotel where Garg had stayed. Singapore Police will first conduct an internal screening before transmitting the footage, Gupta confirmed.
In addition, the statement of Singapore-based Assamese resident Wazid Ahmed, linked to the case, is expected to be recorded by Singapore Police and forwarded to the SIT within the same period.
The investigation intensified following Garg’s death on September 19 while swimming in Singapore during the 4th North East India Festival. Gupta, who heads the nine-member SIT, was accompanied by Titabor co-district SP Tarun Goel during the foreign leg of the probe.
So far, statements of 70 individuals have been recorded, including a fresh appearance by Garima Saikia Garg today. The Indian government had earlier invoked the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) with Singapore to facilitate evidence-sharing and cooperation.
Meanwhile, Singapore Police have been conducting a parallel investigation. On October 17, they stated that preliminary findings did not indicate foul play, though their final report is expected to be submitted to the State Coroner in about three months.
Seven people remain in judicial custody in connection with the case, including festival organisers, members of Garg’s team, a relative, and Assam Police DSP Sandipan Garg along with two of his personal security officers. They are facing charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including murder, culpable homicide not amounting to murder, criminal conspiracy, and causing death by negligence.
The case has sparked widespread public attention across Assam, with over 60 FIRs filed so far. Assam Police have also interrogated 10 of the 11 Assamese nationals who were present during the yacht event preceding the incident.
