Guwahati: Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president and Lok Sabha MP Gaurav Gogoi on Sunday described late singer Zubeen Garg as a “true leader of Assamese society,” saying that people across Assam are still grieving his loss. His remarks came as hundreds of fans and political leaders gathered in Guwahati to pay floral tributes, marking one month since the iconic singer’s death in Singapore on September 19.
Emotional tributes mark one month of Zubeen Garg’s passing
A large number of fans and respected figures paid heartfelt tributes to honour the memory of the late singer, whose sudden death left the state in deep shock. Gogoi, while speaking to ANI, said that Garg’s influence went far beyond music.
“People of Assam are still grieving; they miss Zubeen Garg tremendously. They miss his leadership, his courage… especially today, at this time, we need someone to lead Assamese society the way Zubeen Garg did. Although he was apolitical, he was undoubtedly a leader of Assamese society, and we miss his guidance,” the Congress leader said.
Gogoi demands transparent investigation
The Congress MP urged the government to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into the case. “We all want the truth and facts to come out and justice to be served. It is the government’s duty to investigate, gather all the facts, and convincingly prove the charges in court,” Gogoi added.
Congress MLA Nandita Das also highlighted Garg’s immense contributions to Assamese culture, both in music and cinema. “Zubeen Garg contributed a lot to Assam in the field of music, entertainment, and cinema. But more than that, he was a good person—his lifestyle reflected his mindset. He loved nature and the people. The government should make sure that justice is not delayed,” she said.
Singapore Police clarify on investigation progress
Garg, 52, passed away in Singapore on September 19, allegedly while swimming, just a day before he was scheduled to perform at the Northeast India Festival. On Friday, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) released a statement confirming that preliminary investigations did not indicate foul play.
“The Singapore Police Force is aware of speculation and false information circulating online regarding the circumstances of Mr Zubeen Garg’s death. Based on preliminary investigations, the SPF does not suspect foul play. The case is currently being investigated under Singapore’s Coroners Act 2010,” the statement read.
The SPF said the investigation could take up to another three months, after which findings will be submitted to the State Coroner for a Coroner’s Inquiry—a fact-finding process led by a judicial officer to determine the exact cause and circumstances of death. The findings will be made public upon conclusion.
Coordination between Assam and Singapore authorities
On October 1, the SPF shared the autopsy report and preliminary findings with the High Commission of India, showing cooperation between the two nations. The police assured that the investigation would be professional and thorough, urging the public not to speculate or spread unverified claims.
Meanwhile, the Singapore Police will meet the Assam Police team, led by SIT chief and ADGP Munna Gupta, on October 21. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed confidence that justice will be delivered.
“Another step forward towards justice for our beloved Zubeen. The Singapore Police authorities will meet the Assam Police team led by Sri Munna Gupta, ADGP and Head of SIT, on 21st October. Our collective resolve remains—Justice for Zubeen will prevail,” the Chief Minister posted on X.
Key accused in custody
As part of the ongoing probe, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the CID of the Assam Police identified five accused in connection with the case—event organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Garg’s manager Siddharth Sharma, suspended APS officer Sandipan Garg, and two PSOs, Nandeswar Bora and Paresh Baishya.
All five have been sent to judicial custody by the CJI court in Guwahati. Investigators are probing their roles in the sequence of events leading up to the singer’s death.
A cultural void that endures
Zubeen Garg’s death continues to evoke emotional tributes across Assam, with many recalling his artistic legacy and philanthropic work. Known for his versatile voice and outspoken nature, Garg transcended boundaries between art and activism, making him a household name in the state and beyond.
As investigations continue both in Singapore and India, the demand for justice remains strong among fans and political leaders alike—reflecting the deep impact Garg left on Assamese culture.