Singapore Police Confirm No Foul Play Suspected in Assamese Singer Zubeen Garg's Death

Zubeen Garg, the renowned Assamese singer, passed away on September 19 while swimming in Singapore's waters.

One month following the death of popular Assamese vocalist Zubeen Garg, Singapore authorities have stated they "do not suspect any foul play," though investigations remain ongoing. Police have urged the public to refrain from circulating "unverified information" regarding the singer's death.

"The Singapore Police Force (SPF) is aware of speculation and false information circulating online regarding the circumstances of Mr Zubeen Garg's death. The case is currently being investigated by the SPF, in accordance with Singapore's Coroners Act 2010. Based on preliminary investigations, the SPF does not suspect foul play," their official statement indicated.

According to Singapore authorities, the investigation could take up to three more months to complete.

"The findings will be submitted to the State Coroner in Singapore, who will then determine whether to hold a Coroner's Inquiry ("CI"). A CI is a fact finding process led by a Coroner, who is a Judicial Officer of the Courts, to establish the cause and circumstances of death. Its findings will be made public upon conclusion. Despite the fact that SPF is still in the midst of its investigations, on October 1, it extended a copy of the autopsy report of the late Mr Garg, and SPF's preliminary findings, to the High Commission of India upon their request," the statement continued.

The authorities emphasized their commitment to conducting a thorough investigation into the case, which requires time.

"We seek the patience and understanding of the parties involved. Meanwhile, we urge the public not to speculate and spread unverified information," they added.

The 52-year-old artist was found dead – floating face down in the water – after going for a swim in Singapore on September 19. He had traveled to Singapore to participate in the three-day North East India Festival scheduled to begin on September 20. The event was subsequently canceled following the singer's death.

Both Garg's manager, Siddhartha Sharma, and North East India Festival (NEIF) chief organizer, Shyamkanu Mahanta, have been arrested in connection with the case.

Assam's government, led by Himanta Biswa Sarma, established a 10-member committee to investigate the singer's death and has pushed for an expedited court trial. "The cabinet has decided to request the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court for the trial in the Zubeen Garg case to be done in a fast-track court. The state will appoint a special public prosecutor for the case," Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated.

According to officials, Singapore police are scheduled to meet with an Assam police team led by Special DGP and SIT head Munna Prasad Gupta on October 21 in Singapore.