Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has made a heartfelt appeal for calm following violent protests in Baksa district after the death of celebrated singer Zubeen Garg. The CM appeals for calm and urges citizens not to politicise the tragedy, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and allowing the legal investigation to proceed.
Protests erupted on October 15 when supporters clashed with police near Baksa District Jail, where authorities were transferring the accused in Garg’s case. Security forces responded promptly to restore order.
Unrest in Baksa: Protests Turn Violent
Convoy Attacked, Vehicles Set Ablaze
When the convoy carrying the accused arrived at Baksa’s jail premises, crowds gathered and began hurling stones and setting some vehicles on fire. Police used tear gas and firing in the air to disperse the mob.
Officials say the situation in Baksa is “under control” as of October 16, though tensions remain high.
Misinformation Adds Fuel
Complicating the situation, a fake post-mortem report of Zubeen Garg circulated online, inciting panic among fans and public outrage. The Assam CID has publicly declared the document fraudulent and warned of legal action against its creators and disseminators.
The CM reiterated that the government is committed to transparency. He said, “Let the investigation reveal the truth. Do not let rumours mislead our youth.”
CM’s Appeal: Calm, Trust, No Politics
Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the public amid rising unrest, emphasizing that protests must remain peaceful. He asked people to place their faith in the judiciary and SIT to carry out an impartial probe.
“We are committed to justice. I appeal to everyone — do not politicise this tragedy,” Sarma said, urging citizens not to let vested interests exploit the public sentiment.
He also warned that those trying to incite violence or stir communal sentiments would face strict action under the law.
Legal Proceedings & SIT Investigation
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) overseeing Garg’s death has already secured custody of five accused, including Zubeen’s manager, event organiser, and close associates.
During the court proceedings, the government decided to shift the accused to the newly inaugurated Baksa District Jail, citing security concerns. The decision sparked the protests that escalated into violence.
As public pressure mounts, the Assamese diaspora in Singapore is also being roped in to assist the probe, reflecting the transnational dimensions of the case.
Impact, Reverberations & What’s Next
Security Tightened Across Assam
In the wake of the unrest, security forces in Assam have been put on alert. Police and paramilitary units are monitoring sensitive districts and asserting control to prevent further flare-ups.
Statewide Mourning & Political Criticism
Garg’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief across Assam. His funeral had full state honours, and many political leaders have been drawn into the debate over investigation transparency.
Opposition parties accuse the state government of suppressing dissent and charge that the unrest is a symptom of deeper public distrust. Meanwhile, the government insists that it is following due process.
International Cooperation
With the involvement of Singaporean nationals and police, the case is likely to attract international attention. The October 21 meeting between law enforcement agencies is being closely watched by media and observers.
Stand for Order, Uphold Justice
In times of emotional turmoil, communities must be caution-bearers. We urge the citizens of Baksa and Assam to:
- Maintain peace and refrain from violence or mob action
- Verify information before sharing, to avoid spreading rumours
- Support the judicial process and allow SIT investigations to proceed unhindered
- Report any attempts of incitement to law enforcement
Only through cooperation, restraint, and faith in due process can the state move beyond this crisis—toward justice for Zubeen Garg and stability for Assam.
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