Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has warned strict police action against disruptions during Zubeen Garg’s funeral on Tuesday. With dignitaries attending, the state has arranged security, traffic curbs, and state honours to ensure a peaceful and respectful farewell.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday issued a stern warning to anti-social elements, cautioning that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt the funeral of legendary singer Zubeen Garg. The beloved music icon, who passed away recently, will be laid to rest on Tuesday in Guwahati, where thousands of grieving fans are expected to gather to bid their final farewell.
Speaking to reporters, CM Sarma emphasized that the last journey of Zubeen Garg must take place in a dignified and peaceful manner. “The final journey of our beloved music maestro must be completed in a very dignified manner. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, and senior representatives from the Arunachal Pradesh government are set to attend Garg’s funeral. We will not allow any disruptive activities tomorrow, and strict action will follow against anyone attempting to disorder the last rites,” the Chief Minister declared.
Warning Against Anti-Social Activities
CM Sarma revealed that some individuals had already attempted to create disturbances when Garg’s mortal remains were brought from the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport to the Sarusajai Sports Complex on Sunday. He confirmed that the police have identified those responsible and assured that punitive action will be taken against them.
“The police have detected a section of people who tried to disrupt Garg’s journey from the airport. They will face punishment in the coming days,” he said firmly.
Simple and Dignified Funeral Arrangements
Detailing the arrangements for the funeral, the Chief Minister stressed that the procession would remain simple and disciplined. Only a limited number of vehicles will accompany the ambulance carrying Garg’s body. “Along with the ambulance, a small bus with his wife, close relatives, and friends will travel. No other vehicles will be part of the procession. Just as we brought him from the airport, the journey to the cremation ground will also be conducted smoothly,” he said.
Upon arrival at the cremation site, the mortal remains will be escorted by Assam Police pallbearers. A guard of honour and a gun salute will be accorded before the priest performs the final rites, following the family’s wishes. CM Sarma reiterated that the state government will fully respect the instructions of Garg’s family regarding the rituals.
Security and Traffic Restrictions
The Assam government has announced stringent security measures and traffic restrictions to ensure a peaceful farewell. No vehicles will be permitted to enter from the Jagiroad side on the day of the funeral, except those traveling towards Meghalaya. Similarly, traffic from the Jorabat side will be restricted for four to five hours to allow the procession to proceed without hindrance.
State mourning has already been declared in Assam until Tuesday in honour of Garg’s passing. Flags across government offices are flying at half-mast, and no official celebrations are being held during this period.
An Outpouring of Grief
The mortal remains of Zubeen Garg, who is considered Assam’s most loved cultural icon, arrived in his hometown on Sunday morning. His arrival triggered an outpouring of grief as thousands lined the streets to pay their respects and catch a final glimpse of the singer who touched countless lives with his music.
Fans and admirers gathered in large numbers, holding flowers, banners, and candles as the convoy passed through Guwahati. Many were seen in tears, mourning the loss of an artist whose voice became synonymous with Assam’s cultural identity.
Zubeen Garg’s untimely demise has left a void in the region’s artistic and emotional landscape. His music not only entertained but also inspired generations, making him one of the most influential figures in Northeast India’s cultural history.
A Farewell with Honour
The Assam government has assured that every aspect of Garg’s funeral will reflect the love and respect he commanded during his lifetime. From state honours to coordinated traffic management, the arrangements are aimed at giving the late singer a farewell worthy of his stature.
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As CM Sarma concluded, “This is not just a funeral; it is a moment of collective grief for Assam. We must ensure that Zubeen da’s last journey is conducted with dignity, discipline, and respect.”
