Assam Government Seeks Singapore Cooperation Through MLAT in Zubeen Garg Death Investigation

The Assam government has officially requested the Ministry of Home Affairs to invoke the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty with Singapore regarding singer Zubeen Garg's death investigation, as announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday.

This treaty, established between the two nations, enables information and evidence sharing for law enforcement purposes. Chief Minister Sarma explained via social media that invoking the MLAT would ensure complete cooperation from Singaporean authorities, providing access to case details and assistance in returning the accused to secure justice.

A 10-member Special Investigation Team led by Special DGP M P Gupta has been formed by the Assam government to investigate Garg's drowning death that occurred on September 19 in Singapore, where he had traveled to perform at the North East India Festival.

The Chief Minister stated, "After the Ministry forwards the request to Singapore, our police team already on location will coordinate with local authorities." He added that significant progress is expected in the coming days, noting that the next two to three days would be crucial to the investigation.

Regarding Zubeen's manager Siddhartha Sharma, who stands accused in the case, Sarma mentioned they have leads on his whereabouts and arrangements for his arrest if he fails to surrender to Assam police within the stipulated timeframe.

Assam Director General of Police Harmeet Singh confirmed that the necessary documentation would be sent from the MHA to Singapore through the MLAT, enabling them to seek assistance from Singaporean authorities. He noted that the process has already begun and requested public confidence in the Assam police investigation.

Meanwhile, Shyamkanu Mahanta, Chief Organizer of the North East India Festival and another accused in the case, stated on Facebook that he would return to Assam soon and fully cooperate with authorities. "I have nothing to hide and will answer all questions asked by the SIT. There should be an investigation at the highest level covering all angles," he wrote, expressing his desire for all aspects of Zubeen's death to be thoroughly investigated.

The SIT has issued notices to 10 individuals, including Mahanta, Sharma, and members of the Singapore Assam Association, requesting their appearance to provide statements. Chief Minister Sarma previously announced that Interpol lookout notices had been issued against Mahanta and Sharma, directing them to appear before the CID on October 6.

Garg, reportedly serving as the NEIF brand ambassador, had arrived in Singapore on September 17 and was scheduled to perform on September 20. The three-day festival was subsequently canceled following his death. The singer had joined members of the Singapore Assamese community on a yacht trip when he drowned while swimming.

Over 60 FIRs, including one filed by Garg's family, have been registered in connection with the popular singer's death.