The Special Investigation Team (SIT)probing the death of Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg has arrested his longtime associate, musician Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, who was present on the fateful Singapore yacht trip. Garg, 52, suffered a seizure while swimming near Lazarus Island on September 19 during a visit for the Northeast India Festival. His body was repatriated to Assam, where he was accorded a state funeral on September 23 in Kamrup district, amassing devotees in sorrowful tribute.
Garg’s passing has shaken Assam, where his music, spanning folk fusions to Bollywood hits like Ya Ali, made him a cultural icon. Fans have expressed grief online and in protests, some turning desperate, reflecting the deep emotional impact of his sudden demise.
Close associates under intense scrutiny
Shekhar Jyoti Goswami, a singer, composer, lyricist, and drummer, has been detained from his Garigaon residence by a 10-member SIT led by Special DGP M.P. Gupta. Video footage from the yacht shows Goswami swimming first and urging Garg to follow toward a nearby island, a moment that has fuelled speculation over what unfolded next. Authorities have seized hard drives and documents from Goswami’s home.
Netizens reactions
Formal charges are pending, but public anger has spurred hashtags like #JusticeForZubeenGarg across social media. An X user posted, “Finally, accountability starts with Shekhar's detention, but justice for Zubeen can't wait any longer.”
Investigation widens across organisers
The SIT is also questioning Garg’s manager, Siddhartha Sharma, and festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, among others. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has warranted transparency and said the case could be handed to the CBI if required, adding, “We will uncover the truth by all means and spare no one” (https://x.com/himantabiswa/status/1970827952473747505). A second autopsy provided certitude of no immediate foul play, albeit further forensic tests are underway to provide clarity.
The probe brings to the fore the scrutiny surrounding high-profile figures and the risks of spontaneous adventures. As Assam is seen to tackle grief and demands answers, Garg’s music continues to resonate, keeping his legacy alive while authorities pursue justice.
