Zubeen Garg's Wife Speaks Out After Police Cousin's Arrest in Singer's Death Investigation

Sandipan Garg, who served as a deputy superintendent of police, has been placed under suspension following his arrest.

Following the arrest of Zubeen Garg's cousin and Deputy Superintendent of Police Sandipan Garg in connection with the singer's death, Zubeen's wife Garima Garg has revealed that the two shared a very close bond, stating that Zubeen "loved him dearly." Garima also emphasized her continued trust in the justice system and the family's desire for answers regarding the circumstances of her husband's passing.

The 52-year-old singer died on September 19 in Singapore, where he had traveled to perform at the North East India Festival. The tragedy occurred during a yacht excursion when Zubeen went swimming and was subsequently discovered floating face down in the water.

Sandipan, who accompanied Zubeen on the yacht trip, was arrested on Wednesday after undergoing five days of interrogation. He has been remanded to police custody for seven days and suspended from his duties with the Assam Police.

Speaking about the relationship between her husband and his cousin, Garima shared on Wednesday, "Sandipan joined the Assam Police fairly recently. During the years when we didn't see each other frequently, he pursued modeling and acting. He also collaborated with us on several projects. Zubeen always supported emerging talents. Being his first cousin, Zubeen cherished Sandipan deeply. Zubeen took pride in Sandipan and would often tell others about his impressive height and appearance, as well as his accomplishment of joining the police service."

"When Sandipan expressed his desire to join Zubeen on his trip abroad to Singapore, something he had never done previously, Zubeen was delighted to have him accompany him... I learned through social media this morning that Sandipan had been called in for questioning and subsequently arrested. Perhaps the authorities discovered some evidence in his statement. As the investigation continues, I cannot comment extensively on the matter," Garima told reporters in Guwahati.

She stated that the family, Zubeen's admirers, and the people of Assam are awaiting answers regarding the circumstances leading to his death.

"We have confidence in the Indian judicial system, and I believe we will receive some answers soon," she added.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Wednesday that he would soon meet with Singapore's ambassador to India in New Delhi to address diplomatic issues related to the case, including the questioning of several Singapore-based NRIs who were present during the yacht trip and are considered key witnesses.

"The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is conducting a thorough investigation. We need to give them time and remain patient. Regarding the participation of Singapore-based NRIs in the investigation, I will meet with the Singapore ambassador to India to discuss legal matters pertaining to this case. We maintain good relations with Singapore, so we anticipate receiving their assistance," he stated.

Singer, composer, and music director Manas Robin, a close friend of Zubeen, also appeared before the SIT investigating the singer's death on Wednesday after being summoned. He claimed to possess certain evidence related to the case.

"On the day of Zubeen's funeral, I mentioned that I have specific evidence. I will submit it to the SIT, but I cannot disclose it publicly at this time. This evidence may help the SIT gather additional crucial information," he explained.

Sandipan's arrest brings the total number of arrests in the case to five, with all accused facing charges of murder, culpable homicide not amounting to murder, criminal conspiracy, and causing death by negligence.

Zubeen's manager Siddharth Sharma, bandmate Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, co-singer Amritprava Mahant, and North East India Festival manager Shyamkanu Mahanta were arrested earlier this month in connection with the case.