In a dramatic development that has stunned Assam and the wider cultural community, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has officially declared the death of iconic singer Zubeen Garg as a case of murder. The announcement was made on November 3, 2025, during a press briefing in Tezpur, where Sarma confirmed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) is preparing to file the charge-sheet by December 8, ahead of the legal deadline of December 17.
Zubeen Garg, a beloved figure in Assamese music and cinema, died under mysterious circumstances while swimming in the sea in Singapore on September 19, 2025. He was in the Southeast Asian nation to attend the 4th edition of the North East India Festival (NEIF). Initial reports suggested accidental drowning, but Sarma’s statement has shifted the narrative entirely, sparking intense public interest and speculation.
📊 Timeline of Events Surrounding Zubeen Garg’s Death
| Date | Event Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Sept 17, 2025 | Zubeen arrives in Singapore for NEIF | Singapore |
| Sept 19, 2025 | Found dead while swimming in the sea | Sentosa Beach |
| Sept 20–Oct 15 | Initial investigation by Singapore authorities | Singapore |
| Oct 16, 2025 | SIT formed by Assam government | Guwahati |
| Nov 3, 2025 | CM Sarma declares death as murder | Tezpur |
| Dec 8, 2025 | Target date for charge-sheet submission | Guwahati High Court |
The SIT is working in coordination with Singapore’s law enforcement and India’s Ministry of Home Affairs to expedite legal procedures.
🧠 Key Statements from Himanta Biswa Sarma
| Quote | Implication Summary |
|---|---|
| “I am not terming it an accident.” | Indicates shift from accidental to criminal probe |
| “We are ready to file the charge-sheet.” | Suggests SIT has gathered substantial evidence |
| “December 8 is our internal deadline.” | Demonstrates urgency and political commitment |
Sarma’s remarks have intensified public scrutiny and raised expectations for transparency.
📈 SIT Investigation Highlights
| Investigation Focus | Status Update |
|---|---|
| Autopsy and Forensics | Completed in Singapore; reviewed by SIT |
| Witness Statements | Collected from NEIF attendees and hotel staff |
| Surveillance Footage | Analyzed from beach and hotel premises |
| Travel Records | Verified for anomalies |
| Toxicology Reports | Under final review |
The SIT is expected to present a comprehensive narrative backed by forensic and circumstantial evidence.
🗣️ Reactions from Public and Cultural Fraternity
| Stakeholder | Commentary Summary |
|---|---|
| Assamese Artists | “We want justice and clarity for Zubeen’s legacy.” |
| Family Representatives | “We await the truth with patience and hope.” |
| Fans on Social Media | “This is heartbreaking. We need answers.” |
| Opposition Leaders | “Government must ensure impartial investigation.” |
The emotional resonance of Zubeen’s death has galvanized public sentiment across Assam and Northeast India.
📌 Zubeen Garg’s Legacy in Assamese Culture
| Contribution Area | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Music | Over 20 albums, 1,000+ songs in multiple languages |
| Cinema | Actor, director, and composer in Assamese films |
| Social Activism | Vocal on youth issues, mental health, and education |
| Cultural Diplomacy | Ambassador for Northeast India’s global outreach |
Zubeen’s influence transcended entertainment, making him a symbol of regional pride and unity.
📌 Conclusion
The declaration of Zubeen Garg’s death as murder by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma marks a turning point in a case that has gripped the state and the nation. With the SIT poised to file a charge-sheet by December 8, the coming weeks will be crucial in uncovering the truth behind the tragic loss of one of Assam’s most cherished cultural icons. As the investigation unfolds, the public continues to demand transparency, justice, and closure for a figure whose voice defined a generation.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available government statements, media reports, and investigation updates. It is intended for informational and editorial purposes only and does not constitute legal or forensic advice.
