Zubeen Garg row: Controversial Assamese writer Sikha Sarma arrested

Guwahati: Controversial Asasmese writer Sikha Sarma was arrested on Monday from her residence in the Pathar Quarry area of Guwahati for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Assamese beloved singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg on social media.

The arrest followed a complaint filed by Garima Saikia Garg, Zubeen Garg’s wife, after which police registered a case under Sections 152, 196, 299, 351, 352, 353 and 356 of the relevant laws.

In her complaint, Garima Garg alleged that Sarma’s social media posts had damaged the reputation and legacy of the late singer and caused emotional distress to the family.

According to sources, the complaint relates to a series of objectionable Facebook posts in which Sarma allegedly made demeaning and personal remarks questioning the circumstances surrounding Zubeen Garg’s death and sought the release of the accused in the case.

The posts reportedly triggered widespread outrage among fans and sections of the public, prompting demands for legal action.

Separately, the Zubeen Garg Fan Club is also reported to have lodged an FIR at Dispur Police Station over the same issue.

Following the arrest, Garima Garg expressed her gratitude to the Assam Police on social media, using the hashtag #JusticeForZubeenGarg.

This is not the first time Sikha Sarma has been at the centre of controversy. In 2021, she was booked over a Facebook post in which she allegedly made remarks about security personnel killed in a Maoist attack in Chhattisgarh, drawing sharp criticism online.

At the time, Sarma claimed her statements had been misinterpreted and alleged that she was facing mental harassment, also stating that complaints related to threats she had received earlier were not properly investigated.

Meanwhile, the Crime Branch has acknowledged receipt of Garima Garg’s complaint and is examining the social media content in question. Officials said further action would be taken following legal scrutiny of the allegations.