The investigation into singer Zubeen Garg ’s mysterious death case has entered a crucial phase, with Singapore authorities agreeing to provide vital evidence within the next 10 days. The announcement made by Special Investigation Team (SIT) chief Munna Prasad Gupta on Friday, October 24.
Speaking to reporters in Guwahati after returning from Singapore, Gupta, who also serves as CID Special DGP, said his five-member team had held extensive discussions with Singapore Police officials during their visit. “They assured full cooperation to help close the case at the earliest in accordance with government protocols,” Gupta stated.
Zubeen Garg Death Case: Key Evidence and Pending Statements
The SIT has sought CCTV footage from the hotel where Garg stayed before his death. Singapore Police have committed to conducting an internal screening and sharing the footage within 10 days. Gupta also mentioned that a statement from Wazid Ahmed, a member of the Assamese Association in Singapore linked to the case, will recorded locally and sent to Assam within the same timeframe.
Background of the Investigation
The development comes as the SIT intensifies its probe into Garg’s sudden death on September 19, which occurred while he was swimming in Singapore during the 4th North East India Festival. Gupta, who heads the nine-member SIT, was accompanied by Titabor co-district SP Tarun Goel during the Singapore visit earlier this week.
So far, statements from 70 individuals have recorded in connection with the case. Garima Saikia Garg, the singer’s wife, appeared again today to give her testimony.
International Cooperation and Legal Proceedings
The Indian government invoked the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) with Singapore to facilitate cross-border cooperation. The Singapore Police Force, conducting a parallel inquiry, has stated that preliminary findings show no signs of foul play, though a final report expected within three months.
Currently, seven individuals remain in judicial custody, including the festival organiser, Garg’s manager, two band members, his cousin, and Assam Police DSP Sandipan Garg along with two of his security officers. They are charged under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for murder, culpable homicide not amounting to murder, criminal conspiracy, and causing death by negligence. The case has triggered massive public interest, with over 60 FIRs registered across Assam following the death of one of the state’s most beloved musical icons. Assam Police have also interrogated 10 of the 11 Assamese nationals present on the yacht booked by the Assam Association Singapore when the incident occurred.
