Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Sets Up Fast Track Court, Appoints Special Prosecutor in Zubeen Garg Case
CM Sarma says SIT has made commendable progress; government also forms committee for singer’s memorial and thanks Singapore for cooperation in probe.
Guwahati, Oct 17: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday announced a series of key measures following the violence that erupted outside Baksa District Jail after five accused in the Zubeen Garg death case were brought there under judicial custody.
Speaking to reporters, CM Sarma said the government has decided to constitute a fast track court and appoint a special public prosecutor to ensure speedy justice in the case. “Along with a fast-track court, we have decided to appoint a special public prosecutor as per the recommendation of the Advocate General of Assam,” he said.
He added that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been making “commendable progress” and is expected to file the chargesheet on time.
On the unrest in Baksa, the Chief Minister clarified that the accused were sent there for logistical reasons. “We could have taken them to Dhubri or Diphu, but that would have required a five-hour journey. So the police chose Baksa because there is usually no law and order problem there,” he said.
CM Sarma further informed that a committee has been formed to approve the design and drawings for the Samadhi (memorial) of Zubeen Garg. The panel includes the late singer’s wife Garima Saikia Garg, along with close family members and friends.
Expressing gratitude to the Singapore government, Sarma confirmed that the Assam Police team has been granted permission to visit Singapore on October 21 to continue the investigation. He credited External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar for facilitating the approval.
Meanwhile, following Wednesday’s violent protests outside Baksa District Jail, the Assam government temporarily suspended telecom services in the district. The violence broke out after a Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court sent five accused including event organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, manager Siddharth Sharma, suspended APS officer Sandipan Garg, and two PSOs, Nandeswar Bora and Paresh Baishya to judicial custody.
Police had to resort to lathi charge and tear gas to disperse the crowd after vehicles were set on fire and stones were pelted at the jail premises.
Zubeen Garg, one of Assam’s most beloved singers, died in Singapore on September 19, reportedly while swimming, a day before he was scheduled to perform at the Northeast India Festival. His death has sparked widespread mourning and calls for a thorough investigation.
