Assam Police SIT Raids Properties Connected to Zubeen Garg's Singapore Event Organizers Following Singer's Death

Zubeen Garg passed away in Singapore on September 19.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Assam Police investigating the death of cultural icon Zubeen Garg during the Northeast India Festival in Singapore conducted raids at three locations in Guwahati on Thursday, including premises connected to the event organizer.

Sources revealed that the SIT searched the residence of chief organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, as well as the homes of the Assamese singer's manager and sound recordist.

This action follows the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government's decision to ban Mr. Mahanta from organizing any future functions or events.

Chief Minister Sarma has requested the public to allow time for the SIT investigation, promising to transfer the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) if the police team's findings prove unsatisfactory.

"Trust the SIT. They will investigate all possible circumstances that led to the death. If the SIT fails to deliver, we will hand over the case to the CBI," the Chief Minister stated, addressing growing public demands for CBI involvement.

"Our objective is clear. We will uncover exactly how this incident occurred. A certain group surrounding Zubeen Garg has attempted to exploit him for personal benefit. I've observed this pattern for some time and had previously discussed it with Zubeen himself. Regarding the event Mahanta organized... I never supported it. We will discontinue funding such programs and have implemented a ban," he further remarked.

Chief Minister Sarma added, "Throughout my political career, I attended Shyamkanu Mahanta's program in Delhi only once. Reviewing his social media posts shows his criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP. I have never endorsed him or his events because they lack genuine connection to Assamese culture. We've also recommended that the Centre withhold any financial assistance."

The 10-member SIT operates under CID Special DGP Munna Prasad Gupta's leadership to investigate Mr. Garg's drowning death in Singapore. The team includes senior officials such as Additional SPs, Deputy SPs, Inspectors, and Sub-Inspectors from the CID and various districts serving as Additional and Assistant Investigating Officers.

Team members will remain assigned to the SIT until the investigation concludes. Officials stated that the SIT must work within strict deadlines and maintain transparency throughout the investigative process.

On September 23, Assam gave Zubeen Garg an emotional farewell with full state honors at Kamarkuchi near Guwahati. Honoring his wish, fans sang 'Mayabini' - the song he had once requested be sung upon his passing - as thousands joined the funeral procession. The procession began at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex, drawing massive crowds along its route.

Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju, Sarbananda Sonowal, MoS Pabitra Margherita, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and other dignitaries paid their respects.

Before the final journey commenced, his family brought his beloved dogs - Iko, Diya, Rambo, and Maya - for a final goodbye.