Assam: Garima Saikia Garg seeks fast-track trial of Zubeen Garg death case

Guwahati: Garima Saikia Garg, wife of legendary Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, issued a powerful and emotional public statement on Tuesday evening. She raised serious concerns about alleged conspiracy, negligence, and major lapses in safety and medical response related to the circumstances of the singer’s death. Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has already filed what many describe as a record-sized chargesheet on December 12.

In a detailed social media post, Garima demanded a fast-track trial. She also urged authorities to form a special court bench and appoint a strong team of public prosecutors. This, she said, is essential to ensure “real and timely justice.”

She questioned how officials planned Zubeen’s Singapore visit. Moreover, she pointed out several contradictions in the chargesheet regarding hotel bookings, room arrangements, and decision-making powers. She added that the accommodation plan changed multiple times, even after reaching Singapore. Therefore, she said the situation raises suspicion of premeditation and “hidden intent.”

She also asked why organisers initially planned to make Zubeen, a brand ambassador of a major festival, share a room with someone else. She further questioned why such crucial arrangements were not finalised earlier. She directly blamed both the organiser and the manager for this failure.

Garima stated that Zubeen never handled hotel bookings himself. He also did not know under whose name the rooms were booked. According to her, this strengthens the suspicion of conspiracy because “unusual manipulation” appears involved even in simple hotel arrangements. Therefore, she urged authorities to present clear documentary proof in court.

She also disputed claims that Zubeen travelled voluntarily. She said organisers used his photographs for publicity long before signing any formal agreement. Additionally, she said there was no written contract for the festival. She alleged that organisers repeatedly pressured him to attend. She held both the organiser and the manager responsible for ensuring his safety, medical preparedness, and dignity. However, she said they failed to fulfil these duties.

Another shocking revelation, she said, was the idea of a proposed “One Last Tour.” She alleged that planners discussed it without informing the family, band members, or close associates. She clarified that Zubeen never planned to retire from live performances. Instead, she claimed organisers used the “farewell tour” narrative to negotiate higher fees. She also alleged that many financial details lacked transparency. Furthermore, she questioned why no written agreement existed despite such high financial stakes.

Garima then alleged gross medical negligence. She claimed Zubeen remained without proper medical support for nearly 75 minutes. This happened even though emergency facilities were nearby. She questioned why no one arranged immediate evacuation or AED support. She also said the yacht allegedly lacked basic safety and medical infrastructure. Referring to witness accounts and videos, she said people encouraged Zubeen, who had a history of seizures, to swim without a life jacket. She added that they left him unattended. Later, they reportedly gave him untrained CPR, which caused further injuries.

Calling the events “inhuman neglect,” she said everyone present on the yacht shares responsibility. She said Zubeen endured immense suffering in his final moments. This, she added, remains “unbearable” for the family and for Assam.

However, Garima expressed strong faith in the judiciary. She urged the SIT and government legal advisors to review the chargesheet again if necessary. She said they must remove every loophole. She again demanded a fast-track trial with daily hearings. Otherwise, she warned that delaying justice would mean denying it, especially with more than 300 witnesses involved.

She also appealed to the state government to appoint a powerful prosecution team with trusted senior advocates. She further requested full legal and logistical support. “If justice is denied to Zubeen Garg, what hope remains for ordinary citizens?” she asked.

Finally, Garima said the family will continue the legal battle with patience and dignity. She added that they will seek the harshest punishment for those found guilty. Meanwhile, her statement has triggered strong public reactions across Assam. It has renewed calls for accountability, transparency, and swift justice in one of the state’s most emotionally charged cases.