Guwahati, 1 October (HS): The arrest of Shyamkanu Mahanta, chief organizer of the North East India Festival (NEIF), and manager Siddharth Sharma in connection with the death of Assam’s legendary singer Zubeen Garg has triggered widespread reactions across the state. Family members, political leaders, and fans have expressed hope that justice will finally be served.
Zubeen’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, made an emotional appeal to fans on Wednesday, urging them to remain calm. “Now the law has done its job. The authorities are working in their own way. I hope results will come soon and we will get justice. I have full faith in the judicial system,” she said. Appealing further, she added, “I fold my hands before Zubeen’s fans and request them to let the law take its course. If unrest and chaos continue, where will Zubeen’s ideals stand?”
Zubeen’s sister Palme Borthakur welcomed the arrests, saying, “This is a good step, the investigation is moving in the right direction. Police and administration are working hard and we trust them. We know justice will be delivered. People’s voices must be heard, only then will there be justice. Those present around Zubeen at the time of the incident had the responsibility to bring him home safely, but they ignored it. They must be punished.”
Fans of the late singer expressed mixed reactions, with many welcoming the arrests on social media while others called for patience during the legal process. Meanwhile, local authorities have tightened security across key locations in Guwahati and Jorhat as the probe continues.
Mahanta and Sharma were produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) at his residence in Geetanagar’s Alpana Apartment under heavy security. The court remanded both accused to 14-day Special Investigation Team (SIT) custody, where they will undergo detailed interrogation and evidence gathering.
The arrests and subsequent remand mark a significant development in this high-profile case, offering a measure of relief to the grieving family and fans who have been demanding justice since Zubeen Garg’s untimely death. --------
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
