Guwahati: Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita on Saturday announced his upcoming diplomatic tour to Latin America, while also sharing his personal reflections on the late Assamese music legend Zubeen Garg during a press conference held in New Delhi.
Margherita is set to lead the Indian delegation on a series of bilateral engagements and will represent India at the swearing-in ceremony of Bolivia’s President on Sunday, November 2.
Speaking at the briefing, the minister candidly discussed his long-standing critical view of Zubeen Garg’s work, admitting that the late singer delivered “an exceptional performance” in his final film, Roi Roi Binale. “I have always been a strict critic of Zubeen Garg’s performances, but this time, he has outdone himself,” Margherita remarked, adding that the film reflects the depth of Zubeen’s artistic maturity.
However, Margherita’s remarks came amid an ongoing political storm surrounding Zubeen Garg’s death. The minister accused Akhil Gogoi and Lurinjyoti Gogoi of having “harassed” the artist during his lifetime. He claimed that Akhil Gogoi had even banned some of Zubeen’s songs, including during the Moran Assembly session, while Lurinjyoti Gogoi had “mistreated” the singer.
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Meanwhile, as thousands continue to visit Zubeen Garg’s memorial, the government has clarified that no special permission is required for citizens to pay their respects.
Government sources have confirmed that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also holds the Home portfolio, has access to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) report on the artist’s death. They further alleged that certain political figures, including Akhil Gogoi and Lurinjyoti Gogoi, are attempting to politically capitalize on the tragedy.
Margherita’s statements have added a new dimension to the public and political debate surrounding Zubeen Garg’s life and legacy, even as the late icon’s final film continues to move audiences across Assam.
