Why Did Assam CM Welcome Rahul Gandhi’s Visit to Zubeen Garg’s Residence?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi visits Zubeen Garg's family to pay tribute.
- Calls for a transparent investigation into the singer's death.
- CM Sarma contrasts this with the Congress party's absence during Dr. Hazarika's funeral.
- Diplomatic tensions with Singapore acknowledged amid ongoing probes.
- A collective demand for truth and transparency in Assam.
Guwahati, Oct 17 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Friday expressed his appreciation for the visit of Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, to the home of the late singer Zubeen Garg in Guwahati. He termed this visit a commendable act while contrasting it sharply with the absence of the Congress party during the funeral of another esteemed Assamese figure, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.
Earlier in the day, LoP Rahul Gandhi met with Zubeen Garg’s family and advocated for a transparent and timely investigation into the singer’s enigmatic death in Singapore, describing the beloved artist as “honest, transparent, unshakable, and beautiful — akin to Mount Kanchenjunga.”
Gandhi's comments were part of his heartfelt tribute to Garg, who passed away nearly a month ago under circumstances that remain questionable both in India and Singapore.
In response to Rahul Gandhi's visit, Sarma remarked that although the Congress leader's arrival was overdue, it was nonetheless appreciated.
“When Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika’s remains lay at Judge’s Field for public homage and cremation, not a single senior Congress leader attended during those three days,” Sarma reflected, recalling his own tenure in the Congress party.
“We were profoundly saddened back then. People kept asking us questions.”
However, the Chief Minister refrained from escalating the moment into a political dispute.
“Better late than never. Since he came to honor our cherished artist, I regretfully welcome his visit to Assam. I refrain from making any political remarks regarding it,” Sarma stated.
Sarma also recognized the diplomatic tensions with Singapore amid the ongoing investigation into Garg’s death, suggesting there are backchannel efforts to address the situation.
“While there are certain strains, we are managing the matter with care. Our priority is to seek justice and clarity for Zubeen Garg’s family and the people of Assam,” he highlighted.
Rahul Gandhi’s visit, occurring 28 days post Garg’s death, has garnered significant attention across Assam, with both the state government and opposition factions underscoring the importance of truth and transparency in the inquiry.