Legal Breakthrough in Zubeen Garg Death Case
In a significant development on the 53rd birth anniversary of legendary singer Zubeen Garg, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has granted crucial legal sanction to proceed against individuals accused in connection with the artist's untimely death in Singapore last September.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this major breakthrough, revealing that the investigation has uncovered a disturbing conspiracy where certain individuals allegedly forced Zubeen to consume alcohol to exploit his substantial wealth.
Legal Framework and International Jurisdiction
Speaking to reporters, CM Sarma elaborated on the legal provisions enabling this action. Section 208 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) empowers Indian courts to try offences committed outside India when the central government grants prior approval. The Assam government successfully convinced the central authorities through compelling evidence gathered by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Assam Police that the trial should occur in Assam, given the incident's origins in the state.
"After scrutinising the documents for the last seven days, Union Home Minister Amit Shah signed the file granting the sanction," Sarma confirmed, addressing earlier skepticism about Assam Police's capability to investigate an international case.
Conspiracy Uncovered: Forced Alcohol Consumption
The investigation has revealed shocking details about the circumstances leading to Zubeen Garg's death. Contrary to public perception, the singer was not inclined to consume alcohol voluntarily. "He was made to consume. You will know it in the charge sheet that people made him consume alcohol to use him to fulfil their interest," Sarma disclosed.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Zubeen's true identity was his musical genius and his voice against injustice, not alcohol. "Certain people made Zubeen consume alcohol as part of a conspiracy to loot his money and wealth. Alcohol was not his identity. His identity was his music and his voice against injustice," Sarma stated emotionally.
Timeline and Next Steps
The legal process is now set to accelerate significantly. Based on the sanction granted, the SIT will submit the charge sheet by December 10, 2023. The Assam cabinet has also decided to request the Gauhati High Court to establish a fast-track court to ensure speedy trial and justice delivery in this emotionally charged case.
Seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, including:
- Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta
- Zubeen's manager Siddhartha Sharma
- His cousin Sandipan Garg
- Musician Shekhar Jyoti Goswami
- Singer Amritprabha Mahanta
- Two Personal Security Officers (PSOs)
Zubeen Garg passed away in Singapore on September 19, where he had traveled to participate in the 4th edition of the North East India Festival (NEIF). Following his cremation, multiple FIRs were filed, prompting the state government to form the SIT under CID to conduct a thorough investigation.
This legal sanction marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of justice for one of Assam's most beloved cultural icons, ensuring that those responsible for the alleged conspiracy will face trial under Indian law despite the international nature of the incident.
