Senior Congress leader Nilamani Sen Deka on Saturday, 31 October 2026, accused the Assam government of attempting to shield those allegedly involved in the death of celebrated singer Zubeen Garg, claiming that the ongoing investigation and recent case developments were part of a larger conspiracy to protect the accused and deflect accountability. The accusations come amid a high-profile legal battle that has gripped Assam since Garg's death in Singapore on 19 September 2025.

Bail Grant and Deka's Allegations

Reacting to bail being granted to two accused in the case, Deka alleged that the Assam government was deliberately allowing political and public protests to lose focus, thereby diverting attention from the demand for justice. He claimed that organisations including the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) and Raijor Dal chief Akhil Gogoi had launched protests at a time of mounting public anger, but alleged these demonstrations were not adequately addressing the fundamental questions surrounding the investigation.

Deka also questioned the Special Investigation Team (SIT)'s handling of the case, particularly whether all relevant persons and entities connected with the circumstances of Garg's death had been examined as accused or witnesses and properly interrogated. Referring to a recent press conference by the SIT chief, he said the agency's conduct raised serious concerns about its intent.

Doubts Over Chief Minister's Role

Deka said he harboured serious doubts about whether justice could be delivered unless Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and other influential persons connected with the case were questioned by the investigating agency and the court. He also alleged that the government had failed to extend Garima Saikia Garg, the singer's wife, the freedom to appoint a lawyer of her choice at state expense — a gesture he said would have demonstrated sincerity.

'If the government was sincere, it would have asked Garima Garg to appoint an advocate of her choice and assured her that the government would bear the expenses,' Deka said, adding that the government's reluctance raised questions about possible involvement of influential people.

Key Developments in the Case

The Gauhati High Court granted bail to singer Amritprabha Mahanta on 9 October and suspended Assam Police DSP Sandipan Garg on 16 October. Both are among the seven accused in the case. These developments triggered fresh protests by Raijor Dal and other organisations. AASU organised candlelight processions across Assam on 29 October, demanding cancellation of the bail orders.

In a significant escalation, the Assam government on Friday, 30 October, moved the Supreme Court challenging the High Court's bail orders, intensifying the legal contest surrounding the case. The move was seen as an attempt to address public demand for accountability, though critics argue it came under pressure rather than on the government's own initiative.

Background: Zubeen Garg's Death and Public Outrage

Garg's death in Singapore on 19 September 2025 triggered widespread outrage across Assam, with fans and organisations demanding a transparent probe and stringent punishment for those responsible. The case has since become politically charged, with multiple parties, civil society groups, and artists' organisations weighing in. Supporters of Deka's position argue that the investigation has, in their assessment, been marked by procedural lapses and selective scrutiny — allegations the government has not formally responded to as of this report.

The Supreme Court challenge and continued street protests suggest the case is far from settled; the next judicial hearing is expected to be closely watched.