The investigation into the mysterious death of celebrated Assamese singer-composer Zubeen Garg has taken a new turn, with a local court in Guwahati extending the judicial custody of five key accused by another 14 days. The decision was made during a virtual hearing before the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) of Kamrup Metropolitan district on October 28, 2025. So far, seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, which has gripped the Northeast and sparked widespread public interest.
Zubeen Garg, a cultural icon in Assam, died under suspicious circumstances in Singapore on September 19, 2025, while attending the North East India Festival. He reportedly fell unconscious while swimming during a yacht party, raising questions about the nature of the event and the people accompanying him.
Judicial Custody Extension: Who Are the Accused?
| Name | Role/Connection to Zubeen Garg | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Shyamkanu Mahanta | Chief Organizer, NE India Festival | Judicial custody |
| Siddhartha Sharma | Personal Manager | Judicial custody |
| Sandipan Garg | Cousin, Police Officer | Judicial custody |
| Nandeswar Bora | Personal Security Officer | Judicial custody |
| Prabin Baishya | Personal Security Officer | Judicial custody |
| Two Band Members | Accompanied Garg to Singapore | Detained in Haflong |
The five accused currently lodged in Baksa jail were produced virtually before the CJM due to the Chhath Puja holiday. Their custody was extended to allow the Special Investigation Team (SIT) more time to interrogate and gather evidence.
Timeline of Key Developments
| Date | Event Description |
|---|---|
| Sep 19, 2025 | Zubeen Garg dies in Singapore during yacht party |
| Oct 1–10, 2025 | SIT arrests seven individuals linked to the incident |
| Oct 27, 2025 | Virtual court hearing held due to holiday |
| Oct 28, 2025 | Judicial custody of five accused extended by 14 days |
The SIT, formed by Assam Police’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), has been coordinating with Singapore authorities and recording statements from individuals who interacted with Garg before his death.
SIT’s Investigation Strategy
| Focus Area | Investigative Action |
|---|---|
| Event Timeline | Reconstruction of Garg’s final 48 hours |
| Witness Statements | Interviews with festival attendees |
| Financial Transactions | Scrutiny of payments and bookings |
| Medical Reports | Analysis of autopsy and toxicology results |
| Digital Evidence | Retrieval of phone records and CCTV footage |
The SIT has also questioned noted Assamese author Rita Chowdhury over her podcast with Garg, which aired weeks before his death.
Public Reaction and Cultural Impact
| Stakeholder Group | Response Summary |
|---|---|
| Fans and Cultural Bodies | Demanding transparency and justice |
| Political Leaders | Calling for impartial investigation |
| Media | Extensive coverage and editorial scrutiny |
| Legal Experts | Monitoring due process and custodial rights |
Zubeen Garg’s death has left a void in Assam’s cultural landscape, with tributes pouring in from across the country. His legacy as a voice of the region has intensified calls for a thorough and transparent probe.
Legal Proceedings and Custody Details
| Accused Name | Jail Location | Next Hearing Date |
|---|---|---|
| Mahanta, Sharma, Garg, Bora, Baishya | Baksa Jail | November 11, 2025 |
| Two Band Members | Haflong Prison | Awaiting transfer |
The SIT is expected to submit an interim report before the next hearing, which could determine whether charges will be framed or custody extended further.
Challenges Faced by Investigators
| Challenge Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Cross-border Coordination | Liaising with Singapore police and embassy |
| Evidence Collection | Limited access to foreign jurisdiction |
| Public Pressure | High expectations for swift justice |
| Media Scrutiny | Constant coverage influencing perception |
Despite these hurdles, officials have assured that the investigation is progressing with “no stone left unturned.”
What’s Next in the Probe?
| Upcoming Action | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|
| SIT Report Submission | Preliminary findings to be presented |
| Forensic Analysis | Final toxicology results from Singapore |
| Additional Arrests | Possible based on new evidence |
| Judicial Review | Decision on framing charges or bail |
The next two weeks are critical, as the SIT consolidates its findings and prepares for legal proceedings.
Conclusion
The extension of judicial custody for five accused in the Zubeen Garg death probe marks a pivotal moment in the investigation. As the SIT intensifies its efforts and public interest continues to surge, the case remains one of the most closely watched in Assam’s recent history. With seven arrests so far and more revelations expected, the pursuit of truth and justice for Zubeen Garg continues to unfold.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available news reports and official statements. It does not constitute legal advice or commentary. All views expressed are for informational purposes only.
