Gaurav Gogoi Accuses Assam Government of Hindering Tributes to Zubeen Garg

Assam Congress President **Gaurav Gogoi** has denounced the Assam government for purportedly foiling public efforts to pay tribute to late singer **Zubeen Garg**, accusing the authorities of raising several obstacles for fans in candlelight marches and memorial services. As per Gogoi, the hurdles belie the public's attempt to pay respects and inquire about justice for the legendary musician, indicating a disturbing intrusiveness into the practice of shared grief and respect. He pointed out that individuals in Assam still insist on justice and memorialization for Garg, whose untimely demise on **September 19 in Singapore** left an indelible imprint on the cultural fabric of the state. Garg, who is best known as one of the most influential cultural figures in Assam, is said to have died while swimming. He was set to perform the next day at the Northeast India Festival, and his death came as a greater shock to the public and fans.

Thousands of fans and celebrities joined memorial functions to offer floral tributes and reminisce about Garg's contribution to Assamese society and culture. Gogoi referred to him as "a true leader of Assamese society," noting that even though Garg was apolitical, his work and personality evoked people's unity, valour, and fortitude across Assam. The influence of the late singer went beyond music, reaching the hearts of individuals of all ages and walks of life, and his death has created a perpetual gap.

Gogoi also said that the Assamese people are still mourning, not only for missing Garg's creative works but also for missing his guidance and leadership in spreading cultural values and social harmony. He appealed to the government to make a transparent inquiry into the events of Garg's death, and underlined that justice has to be delivered without delay. Emphasizing the need for accountability, Gogoi urged that there be an investigation which would be in line with public sentiment and values of fairness and transparency. 

Until now, the **Special Investigation Team (SIT) and CID** have arrested seven people on charges related to the death of Garg. Among the arrested are memorial organizing member **Shyamkanu Mahanta**, Garg's manager **Siddharth Sharma**, suspended APS officer and his cousin **Sandipan Garg**, bandmate **Shekhar Jyoti Goswami**, co-singer **Amritprava Mahanta**, and two of his personal security officers, **Nandeswar Bora** and **Paresh Baishya**. Arrests point to a continued probe in an effort to reveal the exact situation surrounding Garg's death, though Gogoi added that administrative or political intervention should be avoided in derailing justice.

Gogoi re-emphasized that the demand of the public for justice cannot be stunted or denied. He posed the question in terms of respect and dignity for Zubeen Garg and the point that people have the basic right to exhibit their sorrow and affection for the deceased singer without any hindrance. His statement underscores the contradiction between popular will and the actions of the state authorities and emphasizes the need to protect the rights of citizens to honor cultural icons without interference.

In conclusion, Gogoi’s statements reflect widespread concern about both the handling of Garg’s memorial events and the ongoing investigation. They underscore the deep public attachment to Zubeen Garg, whose artistic legacy and societal influence remain significant in Assam. Through a demand for transparency and respect for public opinion, Gogoi emphasizes the requirement of a just and accountable process so that the memory of one of Assam's most beloved cultural icons is appropriately respected while justice is being sought.