The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has shared new developments in the ongoing investigation into the death of legendary singer Zubeen Garg, whose passing in Singapore continues to stir emotion and speculation across Assam and beyond.
Addressing the media in Guwahati on Saturday, October 11, CID Additional Director General of Police Munna Prasad Gupta detailed the legal and forensic progress made so far, stressing that Indian authorities are following due international protocols to ensure a transparent and conclusive probe.
Gupta clarified that India cannot independently investigate a case in a foreign country without the host nation’s consent, and any such inquiry must be carried out under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT).
“The CID cannot operate in Singapore without cooperation from the local authorities. Our assistance request was routed through the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, and has reached the appropriate legal office in Singapore,” he said.
Gupta confirmed that communication with the Attorney General’s Office in Singapore is currently underway through the Indian High Commission, though the Singapore government has informed that no Indian officials will be allowed to conduct on-site investigations. However, coordination and data exchange between both nations are being facilitated through diplomatic channels.
On the forensic front, Gupta revealed that the viscera report of the late singer has been received and sent to the Guwahati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) for expert analysis. A specialized medical committee has been formed to cross-verify the viscera findings with the postmortem report conducted earlier. “The expert committee will prepare a consolidated report once both analyses are reconciled. The final report is expected to be handed over to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma within the next two days,”
Gupta added. He also informed that a portion of the report will be shared with select journalists and political representatives to maintain transparency in the investigation.
The CID official further disclosed that a notice has been issued to several Assamese expatriates linked to the case. “One individual has already appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT), while the names of 11 expatriates have been recorded so far,” Gupta said. He warned that legal action would be initiated against any expatriate who fails to cooperate with the investigation. While the initial deadline for appearance has expired, a fresh time frame has been provided for compliance.
Gupta also confirmed that two personal staff members of Zubeen Garg have been arrested and are currently under interrogation. Their custody, he said, is being maintained strictly in accordance with legal procedures, with a maximum remand period of 14 days.
The CID official reiterated that the agency remains committed to conducting a fair, transparent, and comprehensive investigation that considers both domestic and international aspects. “We understand the emotion this case carries for the people of Assam,” Gupta remarked. “Our mission is to bring clarity, not speculation.”
The CID official reiterated that the agency remains committed to conducting a fair, transparent, and comprehensive investigation that considers both domestic and international aspects. “We understand the emotion this case carries for the people of Assam,” Gupta remarked. “Our mission is to bring clarity, not speculation.”
Zubeen Garg, one of Assam’s most iconic voices and cultural figures, passed away in Singapore under circumstances that remain unclear. Known for his versatility as a singer, composer, and actor, Garg’s sudden death has left a void in Assam’s cultural and musical landscape.