- Iconic Assamese singer Zubeen Garg dies in Singapore at 52
- Initially ruled an accident, his death now under murder probe
- Five arrested, including his cousin and event organiser
Renowned Indian singer-composer Zubeen Garg once predicted Assam would “shut down for seven days” when he died. His words proved hauntingly accurate. Following his sudden death in Singapore, the northeastern state came to a near halt—schools closed, shops shut, and life stood still. Three weeks later, the shock remains.
Garg, 52, often hailed as Assam’s “first true rockstar”, died on 19 September after reportedly drowning during a yacht trip in Singapore, a day before he was due to perform at a live concert. Singapore police confirmed they found him unconscious at St John’s Island and ruled out foul play. However, despite initial reports of accidental death, allegations of conspiracy and murder have since emerged.
Controversy Grows Over Circumstances of Death
Before Garg’s state funeral in Guwahati on 23 September—attended by over one million mourners—Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered a second autopsy. Since then, the situation has escalated. Over 60 police complaints have been filed. Five individuals who accompanied Garg to Singapore have been arrested, including his manager, the concert organiser, two crew members, and his cousin, a police officer.
Authorities initially arrested them on charges of negligence, conspiracy, and culpable homicide not amounting to murder. But the head of the special investigation team (SIT), Munna Prasad Gupta, has now confirmed they are also probing a possible murder case. All the accused deny wrongdoing and remain in police custody for 14 days.
Meanwhile, Garg’s viscera samples are undergoing toxicology testing at the Central Forensic Science Laboratory in Delhi. His original autopsy report from Singapore has been submitted to the local police.
A Cultural Icon and a Symbol of Resistance
Zubeen Garg’s musical legacy spans 33 years, with performances in over 40 languages. His hit Bollywood track “Ya Ali” brought him nationwide fame, but it was in Assam where he was revered like royalty. Known for his flamboyant style, bold activism, and deep connection to the northeast, Garg symbolised cultural pride and political voice.
“He filled a cultural void during Assam’s dark years of violence and uncertainty,” said political science professor Akhil Ranjan Dutta. “His music gave people hope.”
Public Outcry, Political Fallout
Public grief has morphed into anger, with many demanding justice. Viral videos showing Garg allegedly struggling to swim on the yacht have intensified questions: Why was he allowed in the water if he appeared unwell?
His wife, Garima Saikia Garg, revealed he was on regular medication, known to those around him. “He was neglected. That much is clear. Now we want answers,” she said. “If anyone is guilty, they must face the strictest punishment.”
The tragedy has become politically charged. With state elections approaching, the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress are trading accusations of politicising the case. Sarma has even said voters should punish his party if his government fails to deliver justice.
In a dramatic move, Sarma urged the public to pressure the parents of witnesses who remain in Singapore to compel them to return and aid the investigation. “Until they come back, we cannot join the dots,” he said.
Grief Held Hostage by Uncertainty
Despite the state funeral, public tributes, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling him the “brightest gem of Assamese culture”, those close to Garg say they have not been able to mourn in peace.
“We are still in limbo,” said Rahul Gautam Sharma, a longtime family friend. “Only when we get the full truth can our real grieving begin.”
