Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday announced that lookout notices have been issued against Shyamkanu Mahanta and Siddharth Sharma in connection with the investigation into the death of singer Zubeen Garg.
The two have been directed to appear before the CID in Guwahati by 6 October. Sarma warned that if they fail to comply, Assam Police will take all necessary measures to ensure their return.
Speaking during a live social media session, the Chief Minister said his government is committed to securing justice for Zubeen Garg, whom he described as a cultural resource of Assam, comparable to Bhupen Hazarika and Jyoti Prasad Agarwala.
“I had said years ago that there were people around Zubeen who exploited him. Today, people are demanding justice, and based on documents received by the police, Shyamkanu Mahanta and Siddharth Sharma need to be questioned. If they are not guilty, they must come and give their statements. Hiding behind social media posts or Facebook Lives will not work,” Sarma said.
He added that the state would not bow to pressure or political influence. “Law will not spare anyone. If you are guilty, you will be punished, and if you are innocent, you will be set free. But you cannot escape accountability. This is Zubeen’s Assam, and we cannot let it turn into another Nepal. Every moment of Zubeen’s life will be accounted for in this investigation,” he stated.
The Chief Minister confirmed that Mahanta’s bank accounts, PAN card and credit cards have been frozen to prevent evasion. He also said the post-mortem report from Guwahati is nearly complete, while efforts are underway to obtain a report from Singapore for further clarity.
To ensure transparency, Sarma said he had written to the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court requesting the formation of a judicial commission led by a sitting judge. “If we ever feel that Assam Police cannot deliver justice, the case will be transferred to the CBI. My promise to the people is clear—I will stand with them until justice is delivered to Zubeen,” he said.
The Chief Minister cautioned against politicising the issue, noting that photographs circulating online prove little. “I meet thousands of people daily and take photos with many. That doesn’t mean I support anyone working against the law. Justice for Zubeen is my duty and responsibility,” he added.
Concluding his remarks, Sarma issued a stern warning to Mahanta and Sharma. “Do not test the patience of the people of Assam. By 6 October, you must be in Guwahati to give your statements to CID. If you attempt to escape, Assam Police will do everything possible to bring you back,” he said.
Also read | Shekhar Jyoti Goswami held for questioning in Zubeen Garg death case