Assam CID intensifies probe into singer Zubeen Garg’s death as Singapore-based Rup Kamal Kalita arrives for questioning. Seven others remain unresponsive. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma confirms MLAT use and ED, IT inquiries into organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta’s financial dealings.
In the ongoing investigation into the mysterious death of celebrated Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Assam Police is preparing to question Rup Kamal Kalita, an Assamese national residing in Singapore. Kalita, one of the eight Assamese individuals summoned by the CID, is expected to arrive in Guwahati on Tuesday to appear before the investigation team.
According to official sources, all eight individuals were reportedly present on the yacht in Singapore where the untimely death of Zubeen Garg occurred. However, Kalita remains the only one to have responded to the CID’s summons so far. The remaining seven, also based in Singapore, have not yet complied, drawing criticism from both the police and the state government.
Kalita is known to be a former resident of Kahilipara in Guwahati, coincidentally the same neighbourhood where the late singer lived for years. His testimony is expected to play a crucial role in shedding light on the final moments leading up to Garg’s death, a tragedy that has deeply shaken Assam and the wider Indian music community.
Chief Minister’s Response and International Legal Coordination
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that his government is closely monitoring the investigation. “We hope the others will follow soon. Some are still unwilling to return, but we are maintaining pressure as their statements are vital for concluding the investigation quickly,” the Chief Minister said.
He further clarified that Assam Police will not travel to Singapore, citing lack of jurisdiction in foreign territory. Instead, the investigation is being coordinated under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) between India and Singapore.
“The Centre has already invoked MLAT. Through this treaty, the Singapore government will share the findings of its probe into Zubeen Garg’s death with Indian authorities,” Sarma added.
Non-Compliance May Invite Strict Measures
CID sources revealed that notices were issued to all eight Assamese nationals living in Singapore who were allegedly present at the scene. While only Kalita has responded, the authorities are considering strict legal measures against those refusing to cooperate, including possible passport cancellation or other diplomatic interventions.
A senior CID officer said that the statements of these witnesses are essential for reconstructing the timeline of events on the yacht, identifying inconsistencies, and determining whether foul play or negligence was involved.
Scrutiny on Festival Organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta Intensifies
Meanwhile, the investigation continues to place increasing pressure on North East India Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, who remains in police custody. Mahanta is being probed for his alleged involvement in the circumstances surrounding Zubeen Garg’s death.
Chief Minister Sarma revealed that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Income Tax (IT) Department are set to launch parallel investigations into possible financial irregularities linked to Mahanta. “We are already in touch with both central agencies to ensure a professional and transparent investigation,” the Chief Minister stated.
He further asserted, “I am confident that the ED and IT Department will look into the financial discrepancies connected to Mahanta. We are working closely with them to make sure that no one involved in Zubeen Garg’s death can evade responsibility.”
Mahanta’s Influence and Public Image Under Question
Sarma also made remarks about Mahanta’s network of connections, saying, “His primary job seemed to be taking photographs with various people. If the pictures stored on his mobile phone are made public, they will include politicians, journalists, and many others. However, such photos have no relevance to the ongoing probe.”
The Chief Minister added that although the police have records of several individuals who travelled with Mahanta to Bangkok, those details currently appear unrelated to the investigation.
Public Concern and the Way Forward
As fans continue to demand justice for Zubeen Garg, the case has sparked widespread outrage and speculation across Assam and the Northeast. Garg, known for his immense contribution to Assamese music and cinema, remains a cultural icon whose sudden demise abroad has left countless admirers heartbroken.
| Also Read: Zubeen Garg Funeral: Assam Shuts Schools and Government Offices |
With the CID tightening its investigation, the cooperation of witnesses in Singapore and the findings shared under the MLAT framework will be crucial in determining the true cause behind the tragic loss of one of Assam’s most beloved artists.
