Is Zubeen Garg's Death Under Investigation? PIL Filed in Gauhati High Court

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The PIL demands transparency in investigating Zubeen Garg's death.
- Concerns about political connections influencing the investigation have been raised.
- Authorities are investigating potential financial misconduct related to the festival organizer.
- Public sentiment is strongly in favor of accountability and justice.
- The case highlights the need for integrity in official inquiries.
Guwahati, Oct 7 (NationPress) A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been lodged in the Gauhati High Court on Tuesday, seeking a thorough and unbiased investigation into the enigmatic passing of Assam's cherished cultural icon, Zubeen Garg.
The petition, initiated by Abhijit Sharma and Palash Ranjan Baruah, claims serious irregularities, potential criminal conspiracy, and misuse of authority related to the circumstances surrounding the singer's demise.
This PIL calls upon the court to mandate that the investigation be conducted transparently, free from external pressures, and under judicial supervision.
This action arises amidst escalating public demand for clarity and accountability concerning the ongoing investigation.
The petitioners have specifically highlighted concerns regarding the alleged involvement of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Sandipan Garg of the Assam Police in the North East India Festival, where Zubeen was slated to perform.
The festival, being primarily cultural and commercial, lies outside the realm of official police duties, raising questions about the officer's participation.
The PIL inquired whether DSP Garg had received formal approval or administrative authorization to attend the festival and requested information regarding the legal authority that allowed such involvement.
Observers have pointed out that his participation could lead to a conflict of interest, and the petition advocates for an independent investigation into any possible misuse of official capacity.
Furthermore, the controversy deepens with allegations against Shyamkanu Mahanta, the chief organizer of the festival, who has significant political and bureaucratic ties in Assam. Mahanta is the younger brother of former DGP Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta and the current State Chief Information Commissioner.
The petitioners have voiced concerns that Mahanta's influence might obstruct or compromise the investigation into Garg's death, urging the court to recognize the potential for interference or undue pressure that could impact the probe's independence.
As pressure mounts on North East India Festival organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, who remains in police custody regarding his alleged role in the untimely passing of singer Zubeen Garg, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Monday that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax (IT) Department will soon initiate inquiries into alleged financial irregularities associated with Mahanta.
The Chief Minister has stated that the state government is in contact with both central agencies to ensure a professional and transparent investigation.
"I am confident that the ED and IT Department will investigate the financial discrepancies linked to Shyamkanu Mahanta. We are collaborating closely with them to ensure that no one involved in Zubeen Garg's death escapes accountability," he asserted.
The Chief Minister also noted that Mahanta is known for establishing connections with influential figures.
"Mahanta's primary activity appears to be taking photographs with various individuals. If the images on his mobile phone are released, they will feature politicians, journalists, and many others. However, these photographs are irrelevant to the ongoing investigation. We also possess records of several individuals who traveled with him to Bangkok, but those details do not pertain to this case," the Chief Minister further added.