Guwahati — The Zubeen Garg murder investigation has entered a crucial stage as Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that the singer’s death will be treated as a murder case. The government has directed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to write to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) within the next four days to obtain approval before filing a formal chargesheet.
Zubeen Garg, a musical legend and cultural icon of Assam, passed away in Singapore on 19 September 2025 during a scuba-diving session. His death, initially labeled as an accident, quickly became the subject of public suspicion and demands for deeper investigation.
Why the Zubeen Garg murder investigation was reopened
After the tragic incident, thousands of fans demanded answers. Many pointed out inconsistencies in the first autopsy report from Singapore. Consequently, several FIRs were filed across Assam, pushing authorities to begin a deeper investigation.
According to a report by NDTV, the initial cause of death listed in Singapore’s certificate was drowning. Yet, the Assam Chief Minister has now publicly stated that circumstantial evidence “does not align with a simple accident.”
The SIT, under the supervision of the Assam CID, has been tasked with verifying witness statements, examining travel companions, and seeking international cooperation from Singapore authorities.
SIT prepares to approach the MHA
Central coordination and evidence from Singapore
The SIT has almost completed its draft report for submission to the MHA. Once the approval arrives, investigators will file the chargesheet in an Assam court.
Officials have confirmed that Singapore police have promised to share crucial materials—such as CCTV footage, witness statements, and dive-site inspection reports—with the Assam SIT within ten days.
The Assam government aims to complete the initial chargesheet by early December. Himanta Biswa Sarma told reporters that “the truth behind Zubeen Garg’s death must be made public.”
Legal impact of the Zubeen Garg murder investigation
Treating Zubeen Garg’s demise as a murder case has changed the legal trajectory completely. What began as a suspected case of accidental death now includes sections under IPC 302 (murder) and 120B (criminal conspiracy).
Investigators are re-examining:
- Communication and financial records between the people who accompanied Garg.
- The dive operator’s adherence to safety regulations.
- Unexplained monetary transfers that occurred days before his death.
The Times of India reported that the Chief Minister has directed the SIT to conclude the investigation and submit a watertight chargesheet within three months.
Public reaction and emotional fallout in Assam
Fans demand justice
The Zubeen Garg murder investigation has united the people of Assam like few cases before. Thousands gathered in Guwahati for candlelight vigils, demanding “Justice for Zubeen.” Social-media campaigns such as #JusticeForZubeenGarg and #TruthForAssam have trended continuously since the CM’s declaration.
Local artists and cultural bodies have also issued statements urging authorities to maintain transparency. Opposition leaders urged the state to maintain transparency. Some even called for a CBI inquiry to avoid any political interference.
Government appeals for restraint
Meanwhile, the Assam government appealed for calm. It reminded citizens not to share unverified claims or fake documents. In fact, the CID has already warned of legal action against those circulating falsified post-mortem reports.
What’s next for the case?
The SIT will submit its formal request to the MHA by mid-November. Once approval is granted, investigators will likely issue formal summonses to individuals who were present in Singapore during the incident.
Authorities will also pursue cooperation through India’s diplomatic channels. The findings could determine whether the case remains under the Assam CID or escalates to a national-level agency.
The next critical milestone is the filing of the chargesheet by December 8, 2025, as confirmed by the Chief Minister.
Why this investigation matters
The Zubeen Garg murder investigation goes beyond a single case—it reflects the growing demand for accountability and justice in India’s Northeast. Zubeen Garg was not only a singer but also a symbol of Assamese identity, activism, and unity.
Ensuring a transparent investigation sends a strong message about the state’s commitment to law, order, and cultural integrity.
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