Zubeen Garg's Family Appeals to PM Modi for Special Court in Singer's Death Case
The family members of the late and celebrated singer Zubeen Garg have formally written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, making a heartfelt plea for the establishment of a special court to ensure an expeditious trial in the case concerning his untimely death. This significant communication, dispatched on Saturday, underscores the family's profound grief and their unwavering faith in the judicial system of the Republic.
Urgent Requests for Justice and International Cooperation
In their detailed letter, the kin have articulated several critical requests aimed at securing justice:
- They have urged the Indian government to engage proactively with Singaporean authorities at the highest level to closely monitor the ongoing proceedings in the Coroner's Court of Singapore, where the investigation into Garg's death is being conducted.
- The family has strongly advocated that bail should not be granted to any of the accused individuals until the entire judicial process reaches its conclusion, emphasizing the need for stringent legal measures.
- Furthermore, they have requested the appointment of additional public prosecutors, if deemed necessary, to bolster the existing five-member legal team already constituted by the Assam government. This step is intended to ensure that the case is handled with the utmost professional competence and seriousness, thereby accelerating the judicial proceedings.
A Family's Trust in the Republic's Justice System
The letter poignantly states, "We are a family in grief, but also citizens of a Republic founded on justice. We place our trust in your good office to ensure that this matter is pursued with the seriousness, urgency and moral weight it deserves." It further highlights that Zubeen Garg's demise has not only left his family in mourning but has also affected millions of his admirers who are earnestly seeking clarity and lawful action.
The communication was officially signed by Garg's wife, Garima, his sister, Palmee Borthakur, and his uncle, Manoj Borthakur. The signatories have confirmed that they have been in continuous engagement with the relevant authorities in both India and Singapore, demonstrating their persistent efforts to navigate the complex legal landscape across jurisdictions.
Current Status of the Investigations
The case is under dual investigation:
- In India, the Assam Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is actively probing the matter. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) from the CID submitted its charge-sheet on December 12. According to the SIT's findings, out of the seven individuals arrested so far, four have been accused of Garg's murder, while one faces charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder. The remaining two have been charged with criminal conspiracy and criminal breach of trust related to the misappropriation of funds or property.
- In Singapore, the authorities are conducting their own investigation. Recently, a coroner's court in Singapore ruled out foul play, concluding that Garg was "severely intoxicated" and tragically drowned off Lazarus Island after declining to wear a life jacket. The 52-year-old singer was in Singapore to participate in the North East India Festival and passed away on September 19 last year.
The family's appeal to Prime Minister Modi represents a crucial step in their quest for justice, blending personal sorrow with a steadfast belief in the legal frameworks of both nations. As the investigations continue in India and Singapore, the call for a special court and enhanced legal support aims to bring closure to this poignant case that has captivated public attention across Assam and beyond.
