Assam: Gauhati University student faces backlash over remarks on Zubeen Garg’s death

Imphal: A student from Gauhati University has come under fire after posting a video on social media that criticized the public mourning of legendary Assamese singer Zubeen Garg.

In the video, the student mocked those grieving his death, calling them “uneducated” and “stupid,” and expressed embarrassment over the widespread emotional response.

The student condemned the closure of local businesses during the mourning period and said they would sever ties with anyone participating in such acts of tribute.

"Focus on your work and do something in life," the student said, questioning the logic behind shutting down normal life to grieve.

The video quickly went viral, prompting an outpouring of anger from the public. Many viewed the comments as disrespectful toward the sentiments of the Assamese community.

Social media users demanded strict action, with some calling for the student's expulsion and legal consequences.

Zubeen Garg, an iconic figure in Assam’s music and cultural world, tragically passed away during a scuba diving incident in Singapore. The state plunged into mourning, with the Assam government declaring a three-day state mourning period. All official events and celebrations were suspended.

Thousands of fans gathered at the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex (Sarusajai Stadium) in Guwahati to pay their final respects.

On Sunday morning, officials brought his mortal remains from Guwahati airport to his home in Kahilipara.

Mourners lined the streets, showering the passing ambulance with flowers. His wife, Garima Saikia Garg, accompanied the body on its final journey.

The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) reportedly lodged a formal complaint against the student for making abusive and derogatory remarks during a period of collective grief.

Citizens online described the incident as an example of "emotional insensitivity" and urged authorities to take appropriate action.