AASU, cultural fraternity calls for watertight case after SIT chargesheet

Guwahati, Dec 13: Following the submission of chargesheet by Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the CID in connection with the mysterious death of iconic singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore, student leaders, artistes and cultural personalities of the Statestressed the need for a watertight prosecution that can ensure justice for the late music icon.

They also expressed hope that the chargesheet would pave the way for justice.

All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) adviser Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharyya reiterated that the organisation had long demanded a strict investigation and a chargesheet capable of ensuring punishment for the accused.

“Today, the SIT has submitted the chargesheet. We are hopeful that it is strong and that the culprits will be punished. Even though the Chief Minister said that it is now up to the judiciary, but the government’s responsibility continues. Every point in the chargesheet must be backed by proper evidence, and the government must appoint a senior advocate as public prosecutor,” he said.

“Justice would be served only when the guilty are convicted,” he added.

AASU general secretary Samiran Phukan said the people of Assam expect a strong and error-free chargesheet that can withstand scrutiny in the court of law.

“There should not be any lapse. The government has spoken about a fast-track court and appointing a public prosecutor, so the process must be expedited,” he said.

AASU president Utpal Sarma said that the people of the State are anxiously waiting for justice.

“As the Chief Minister of Assam said it publicly that it is a case of murder, the accused must be punished accordingly and Zubeen Garg must receive justice,” he said.

Reacting to the development, musician Manash Robin said that he had not seen the full details of the chargesheet but had followed updates through the media.

“We have to remain patient and keep track of the proceedings. There is nothing new in the chargesheet; it contains what we have been hearing for months. We have also heard that a final chargesheet will also be submitted. If the report in the chargesheet is correct, the evidence we submitted will help strengthen the case,” he said.

Singer and lyricist Anupam Saikia expressed confidence in the system. “The people of Assam and admirers of Zubeen Garg are hopeful. We have great faith in the Assam Government and the judiciary,” he said.

Film director Rajesh Bhuyan also said, “Those responsible for Zubeen’s death must be punished. Justice for Zubeen is justice for the people of Assam.”

Padma Shri awardee Hemchandra Goswami said filing the chargesheet marks a crucial step forward. “It will now pave the way for the perpetrators to be punished. Zubeen Garg must get justice,” he added.

“Zubeen was not just an artiste; he was an emotion for us. We want justice for Zubeen Garg,” said a fan.