Assam CM confirms international cooperation intensifies as probe enters critical phase
The investigation into the death of renowned Assamese singer Zubeen Garg has entered a crucial phase, with Singapore authorities seeking vital information from the victim's family as part of their ongoing inquiry.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed on Sunday that Singapore Police had sent specific queries regarding the singer's death on Saturday. The state government promptly collected the requested information from Garg's family and forwarded it to Singaporean authorities.
"Singapore Police is investigating the case very seriously. They sought certain vital information about Zubeen, which we collected from his family and sent to them. They want to give us a proper report," Sarma told media persons in Guwahati.
The 48-year-old cultural icon died on September 19 while swimming in the sea in Singapore, where he had traveled to attend the North East India Festival. The circumstances surrounding his death have raised several questions, prompting both Indian and Singaporean authorities to launch parallel investigations.
The Indian government has invoked the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty with Singapore to ensure full cooperation between the two nations. Under this framework, the Assam Police have sent multiple requests through the Union Home Ministry seeking legal assistance, including statements and information related to the crime scene.
"Whatever information we need related to the crime scene, we have sent our request through the Union Home Ministry under MLAT. These are now with the Singapore Attorney General's office," the Chief Minister stated.
A Special Investigation Team under the Criminal Investigation Department is leading the domestic probe. The CID has reportedly developed a "definite angle" following receipt of the viscera report from the Central Forensic Laboratory in Delhi. The report has been forwarded to doctors at Guwahati Medical College who conducted the post-mortem examination.
The SIT has already arrested seven individuals in connection with the case, including Garg's cousin and Assam Police DSP Sandipan Garg, festival organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, the singer's manager Siddharth Sharma, two band members, and personal security officers. Investigators have also uncovered suspicious financial transactions exceeding Rs 1.1 crore in the accounts of arrested security personnel.
Fresh summons have been issued to 10 members of the Assam Association Singapore who reportedly witnessed Garg's final moments. However, only one individual, Rumkamal Kalita, has appeared before investigators so far and was questioned for over 24 hours.
Four more Assamese expatriates from Singapore are expected to arrive in Guwahati on Monday to record their statements. The police have rejected requests for video conferencing, insisting on in-person appearances.
"I would tell those six individuals that it is their legal and moral responsibility to cooperate in the investigation," Sarma emphasized, adding that the government would not hesitate to initiate legal proceedings against non-compliant witnesses.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that authorities would soon submit a charge sheet before the court. "The investigation is going in the right direction. We will be able to expedite the investigation based on the Central Forensic Science Laboratory report," he said.
The case continues to evoke strong emotions from the Assamese community and music lovers across the country, who are demanding justice for the beloved singer. The investigation highlights the complexities of international criminal probes and demonstrates the commitment of both nations to uncovering the truth behind Garg's tragic death.
