Akhil Gogoi slams Assam Govt over Zubeen Garg’s death, contrasts with Post Malone security

Guwahati: Raijor Dal chief and Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi on Monday evening lashed out at the Assam government. He linked the suspicious death of cultural icon Zubeen Garg in Singapore to the heavy security for global star Post Malone’s Northeast debut concert tonight.

With #JusticeForZubeenGarg trending, Gogoi demanded CM Himanta Biswa Sarma apologize for failing to protect Zubeen Garg three months ago.

Gogoi accused authorities on social media of denying Zubeen Garg “state guest” security during the MEA-sponsored NEIF in September.

He said Garg drowned off a Singapore island during a yacht outing due to this lapse.

“Why did Assam’s greatest artist not receive dignity? Why did anyone take responsibility?” Gogoi asked.

He held Cultural Minister Pabitra Margherita, Indian High Commissioner in Singapore, and minister Bimal Bora accountable.

He contrasted Garg’s fate with Malone’s security, saying:
“Seeing world-renowned artist Post Malone today, every sensitive Assamese’s heart trembles.”

Gogoi added:
“I asked about security arrangements for Zubeen Garg in Singapore. Even if the MEA or Assam government did not provide heavy protection, he would at least have received state guest security. I would have escorted Zubeen Da myself. Who allowed this injustice? Isn’t it Minister Pabitra Margherita, the Indian High Commissioner, or Cultural Minister Bimal Bora? Seeing Post Malone today, Chief Minister, will you say sorry to Zubeen or apologize to the people of Assam?”

Malone’s “Big Ass World Tour” show at Khanapara Veterinary Ground is Assam’s first international concert under its new Concert Tourism Policy.

The show attracts 20,000–22,000 fans via BookMyShow Live. Authorities deployed 1,300 police for law, traffic, and crowd control; 900 security personnel; fire services with engines and rescue vans; 30 marshals; 15 parking zones; and 100+ CCTV-monitored operations centers.

Traffic authorities blocked key routes from 10 a.m., allowing emergency vehicles only.

The SIT probe into Garg’s “plain and simple murder” arrested seven people, including NEIF organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta.

The SIT will file the chargesheet on December 12. A judicial commission will also submit its report on the same date.

Gogoi’s remarks echo his earlier protests and Lok Sabha queries by MP Gaurav Gogoi demanding MEA accountability and a posthumous Bharat Ratna for Garg.

As vigils continue and Malone performs from 8 p.m., the contrast is clear: global stars get tight security, while Assam’s local legend lost his life.

Zubeen Garg, Assam’s musical heartbeat, died on September 19, 2025, at age 52.