Guwahati, 21 October (HS): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made a string of bold statements on Tuesday while addressing the unrest triggered by the death of cultural icon Zubeen Garg.

While speaking to reporters, Sarma remarked that his stepping down from office would immediately pacify a significant part of the agitators. “If I resign today, 50% of the protests will end right away. And if Gaurav Gogoi is made Chief Minister, the remaining 50% will also stop,” he quipped.

Rejecting the notion that the agitation was about seeking justice for Zubeen Garg, the Chief Minister said, “This movement is not about justice for Zubeen.” He pointed out that many of those now protesting had once criticised the late artist. “There’s a clear distinction between those who truly loved Zubeen during his lifetime and those who appeared after his death,” he added, urging genuine fans to speak up for the right cause.

Sarma reiterated his responsibility to stand by the people in difficult situations. Referring to recent violence in Baksa district, he said several youths had fled fearing police action. “They must come back. The government will not take any punitive steps if they voluntarily appear before the police and give their statements,” he assured.

Blaming a section of the media for fueling tension, Sarma alleged that some outlets circulated “highly exaggerated” reports from Baksa, misleading the public and worsening the situation.

Dispelling rumours about tree cutting in the area, the Chief Minister clarified, “No trees were felled. Every tree stands as it is. I had personally assured Zubeen that the trees would be preserved. The reports suggesting otherwise are completely false.”

Announcing measures to honour Zubeen Garg’s memory, Sarma said the government would carry forward his unfinished projects. “Music schools and colleges will be established in every constituency, and a statue of Zubeen Garg will be installed,” he declared.

On the legal proceedings, Sarma stressed that the case would be handled transparently under judicial scrutiny. “Even if the government makes mistakes, the judiciary will not. The High Court is already overseeing the probe and the police report will soon be submitted,” he stated, calling on citizens to trust the judicial process.

He also confirmed that the case surrounding Zubeen Garg’s death would be fast-tracked in court. Appealing for calm, Sarma urged the people of Assam to maintain patience and repose faith in the justice system.-------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash