Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently made a statement, saying, “This is Zubeen’s Assam, and we can’t let it become Nepal”. This statement has electrified Assam in the midst of masses being saddened over the loss of music icon Zubeen Garg. The statement comes in the middle of large-scale agitation, controversy, and allegations of negligence related to the singer’s demise in Singapore. Sarma looks to divert public sentiment away from violence and move towards a calm, lawful resolution.
The context behind the statement
Zubeen Garg’s sudden demise on September 19 led to mourning. This also came with calls for a thorough investigation. Police have released lookout notices for event organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta and Zubeen’s manager Siddharth Sharma. The two are under scrutiny for their roles in the situation of Garg’s drowning. Sarma, in a widely-viewed Facebook Live address, spoke about Assam’s cultural icons, which included Lachit Borphukan and Bhupen Hazarika, highlighting that the state’s legacy of resilience and unity must be preserved, despite mounting street protests and demands for “justice for Zubeen”.
A sharp contrast was drawn with recent turmoil in Nepal, which witnessed violent protests following social media restrictions. The CM emphasized that Assam would not allow such unrest or damage. “Every moment of Zubeen’s life will be accounted for,” he assured. He announced a judicial commission action and promised to pass the investigation to the CBI if Assam Police cannot deliver adequately, as per a report from the Economic Times.
Keeping the peace in Zubeen’s name
Sarma warned agitators not to use Zubeen’s name for political or anti-government movements. Sarma also threatened legal consequences and clarified his stance on violence. He ensured accountability by freezing bank accounts of those who had refused to cooperate and summoning suspects to appear before the CID by October 6. The chief minister concluded his speech with his commitment to justice, unity, and development. He also warned against any attempt to repeat “Nepal-style” violence, according to the Economic Times.
CM Himanta’s stance speaks about Assam’s response as a test of cultural integrity and social peace. It is a pledge to honor Zubeen’s legacy not with violence, but with justice and civic pride.
