Assam Government Bans Organiser Following Singer Zubeen Garg's Death
The Assam government has prohibited event organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta and his associated organisations from holding any functions in the state. The decision follows widespread public anger over the death of popular singer Zubeen Garg, who drowned in Singapore just before he was scheduled to perform at the North East India Festival, organised by Mahanta. The state's Crime Investigation Department is probing the circumstances of the singer's death, and the government has also urged the Centre to withhold assistance to the organiser.
Unpacked:
The organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta and Zubeen Garg’s manager have been accused of ‘criminal conspiracy’, ‘culpable homicide not amounting to murder’, and ‘causing death by negligence’ following multiple complaints and FIRs from fans alleging foul play in the singer’s death.
Public anger stems from widespread suspicion of foul play, as Zubeen Garg was a beloved cultural icon. Many fans filed complaints, leading to a high-profile investigation and demands for transparency, including a second post-mortem, to address concerns over the circumstances of his death.
Assam’s CID formed a Special Investigation Team to consolidate all FIRs and probe the case, while the Chief Minister requested Singapore’s High Commissioner for a detailed inquiry. Singapore authorities are cooperating fully, and a second post-mortem was conducted in Assam for further clarity.
The North East India Festival is a major cultural event aimed at showcasing the region's heritage, music, and arts, often featuring prominent artists like Zubeen Garg. His scheduled performance highlighted the festival’s importance and deepened the impact of his unexpected death on the community.