A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Gauhati High Court on Tuesday, demanding transparent investigation into the death of Assam’s singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg.
The PIL, submitted by Abhijit Sharma and Palash Ranjan Baruah, alleges irregularities and possible criminal conspiracy behind Garg’s death. It seeks judicial oversight to ensure that the investigation remains independent and free from political or bureaucratic influence.
The petition particularly raises questions about the conduct of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sandipan Garg, who was reportedly associated with the North East India Festival— an event where Zubeen was scheduled to perform before his untimely demise.
As the festival was largely cultural and commercial in nature, the petitioners questioned whether DSP Garg had official authorisation to participate. They have requested the court to examine the legal basis for his involvement in the event.
Attention has also turned toward Shyamkanu Mahanta, the festival’s chief organiser and the younger brother of former DGP Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, who currently serves as the State Chief Information Commissioner. The PIL warns that Mahanta’s political and bureaucratic connections could influence the course of the investigation.
Mahanta, who remains in police custody, is being probed for alleged links to the singer’s death.
Amid growing public outrage and speculation, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax Department will soon examine financial irregularities associated with Mahanta.
“The state government is fully cooperating with central agencies to ensure a professional and transparent investigation,” Sarma said.
Addressing concerns over Mahanta’s network, the Chief Minister acknowledged that the organiser had cultivated ties with politicians, journalists and other influential figures, but clarified that “these have no relevance to the ongoing probe.” He also dismissed the notion that Mahanta’s foreign trips, including visits to Bangkok, were connected to Garg’s death.
Also read: Bandmate claims Zubeen Garg poisoned in Singapore
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