Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on March 31 accused the Congress of politicising the death of popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg by including the matter in its election manifesto, calling the party’s move “an unpardonable crime” and warning voters would react strongly to what he described as “politics of sentiment.” He said the issue is sub judice (under judicial consideration), and that a fast-track court has been constituted with hearings currently underway.
Sarma said Zubeen Garg “holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Assam” and called it unfortunate that the singer’s name was being used for “collecting votes.” He challenged the Congress, saying: “If they truly want justice, they can engage a lawyer and argue the case in court,” quoting his view that legal, not political, channels are the proper route.
The chief minister blamed past corruption and inefficiency for delays in similar cases and asserted that the present government has ensured swifter legal action. He expressed confidence the matter could be resolved within a few months, even suggesting a resolution within 100 days. Sarma also questioned the credibility of the Congress manifesto pledge to deliver justice within 100 days of coming to power.
Sarma alleged that some individuals accused in the case have links to Congress leaders and said the state government is committed to strict legal action against anyone found responsible. He noted that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been set up and that arrests have already been made, while the case remains under judicial review.
The chief minister also referred to a video circulating on social media which, he claimed, showed attempts to elevate the issue to the national level, including discussion at the Congress Working Committee; he called this part of a larger conspiracy and warned those engaged in what he termed “dirty politics” would not be spared.
Clarifying his personal stance, Sarma said he did not wish to politicise the singer’s death and would pay respects by visiting memorial sites, while criticising Congress leaders’ public visits with media presence as aimed at political mileage. Zubeen Garg died on September 19 last year in Singapore after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest while swimming; his death drew widespread attention across Assam and renewed calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/elections/story/congress-committed-sin-by-including-zubeens-death-issue-in-its-manifesto-himanta-1368490-2026-04-01?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-04-01 08:11:00
