Garima Saikia Garg Demands Investigation into "Mysterious" Death of Cultural Icon Zubeen Garg

Garima Saikia described Zubeen Garg as her personal source of strength.

Guwahati:

Garima Saikia Garg, wife of renowned singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg, has characterized the circumstances surrounding his death as "mysterious" and called for a thorough investigation into the events leading to his final moments.

After completing the 11th-day rituals on Monday, Garima expressed to reporters that she and her family had not received clear answers. "We remain uncertain about what actually happened to Zubeen Garg. The circumstances of his passing continue to be mysterious. We require answers. It's evident he was a victim of negligence. But why would someone of his stature be neglected? We're seeking complete clarity. I have confidence in the investigation process," she stated.

'He Was Like a God to Me'

Garima portrayed her husband not merely as a public figure but as her personal pillar of strength. "To me, he was divine, as he was to his countless fans. His words consistently uplifted my morale. During his lifetime, people often misinterpreted him. However, he would say that people would comprehend his words a decade later," she reminisced.

"His vision was always for 'Bor Axom' where individuals of every background, belief, and religion could coexist harmoniously. Humanity must endure. Today, as everyone unites for Zubeen, I urge all to maintain peace," she expressed.

Questions Over Yacht Party

Garima mentioned that her last communication with her husband was on September 18, and he never mentioned any yacht party in Singapore, where he had traveled for the North East India Festival. "Had he been aware, he would have certainly informed me. He was unaware of the yacht party. I hope the investigation addresses this and provides clarification," she said.

She further revealed that her husband had a documented medical condition and was taking prescribed medication for seizures. "He only required one medication. I provided his medicines, and his manager was also aware. He experienced seizure attacks and needed to take his medication punctually," she elaborated.

Negligence Allegations

Garima questioned why those accompanying him on the yacht failed to intervene when he entered the water despite his condition. "Knowing he wasn't fit to swim, why didn't they remove him from the water? They could have done so. Distracting him would have been straightforward," she remarked.

She identified several individuals who were present during his final moments, including his manager Siddhartha Sharma, musician Shekhar Goswami, and members of the Assam Association. "The video clearly shows he was fatigued. Those with him had the responsibility to immediately extract him from the water," she stated.

She emphasized that Siddhartha Sharma, in particular, was cognizant of Zubeen's health limitations. "He was advised to avoid proximity to water or fire, as these could trigger seizures. His manager was aware of this," she stressed.

Criticism Of Festival Organisers

Garima also expressed dissatisfaction with the arrangements made by Shyamkanu Mahanta, the chief organizer of the North East India Festival. "I have no personal grievance against him, but he certainly held responsibility. Zubeen attended a festival organized by him. He referred to Zubeen as his friend, yet I cannot comprehend how he could bring an artist of his caliber without ensuring medical assistance, security, or proper accommodations for his stay and nutrition. He made no provisions for Zubeen," she alleged.

Personal Circumstances

When questioned why she hadn't accompanied her husband to Singapore, Garima explained that family obligations had kept her in Assam. "Both his father and my parents were unwell, and some caretakers were on leave. I needed to address these matters before Durga Puja, as Zubeen's festival performances were scheduled after his return. I had intended to join him then," she explained.

She added that the family still hadn't received his mobile phone, which might provide insights into his final hours.

When further questioned about whether Zubeen had taken his prescribed medicines, Garima stated she wasn't directly aware but had ensured his medication was always accessible to him. "Since August 2024, following a seizure attack, he's been taking just one medication. I always ensured his medicines were available in the house, car, or studio," she mentioned.