The Kamrup Metropolitan district and sessions court in Guwahati delivered a significant ruling on Friday, denying bail to Amritprabha Mahanta and two personal security officers (PSOs) in the high-profile case concerning the death of renowned singer Zubeen Garg. The court's decision underscores the gravity of the allegations, with Sessions Judge G Baruah emphasizing a prima-facie case against the accused.
Court Cites Conspiracy and Non-Cooperation
In a detailed order, Judge Baruah stated that the prosecution's case reveals a prima-facie instance of conspiracy involving Amritprabha Mahanta. The court noted her alleged active participation in events leading to Zubeen Garg's demise, which occurred in Singapore on September 19. Amritprabha, who has been incarcerated since October on murder charges filed by a state government-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT), faced scrutiny for her actions surrounding the singer's death.
Key Testimony and Evidence
The judgment highlighted testimony from Tonmoy Phukan, a member of the Assam Association in Singapore, which the court found fortifying the prosecution's claims. According to the court, Amritprabha allegedly encouraged Zubeen to consume excessive alcohol over two nights prior to his death. Furthermore, Phukan's statement indicated that Amritprabha, a day after Zubeen's passing, attempted to dissuade him from informing Singapore Police about her presence with the singer during those critical days.
"The question that comes into mind is why she was not cooperating with Singapore Police by stating that she was the person who last resided with Zubeen," the court remarked. It added that her actions reflect a culpable mental state, aimed at evading investigation by Singapore authorities. Based on these considerations, the judge concluded that it is not a fit case to grant bail to Amritprabha at this stage, leading to the rejection of her petition.
PSOs Also Denied Bail
In a parallel development, the court also rejected the bail pleas of Zubeen Garg's personal security officers, Nandewar Borah and Paresh Baishya. Judge Baruah described the offence committed by the accused as "serious in nature which has ramification in the society." The investigation had uncovered allegations that the PSOs misappropriated a substantial sum of money from the singer, adding to the severity of the case.
"As such, this court is of the view that the accused persons are not entitled for bail at this stage," the judge asserted, reinforcing the decision to keep them in custody as the legal proceedings continue.
Family's Response and Future Hearings
Zubeen Garg's wife, Garima Saikia Garg, expressed her faith in the judicial system following the court's ruling. Speaking to reporters in Guwahati, she said, "I have complete faith in the judicial system. I am hopeful the culprits behind the untimely demise of Zubeen will face harsh punishment." Her statement reflects the emotional weight of the case and the quest for justice in this tragic incident.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for February 13, marking a crucial date in the ongoing investigation and legal battle. As the case unfolds, it continues to draw significant public attention, highlighting issues of accountability and justice in the entertainment industry.
