Authorities in Assam have arrested nine individuals in connection with violent protests that erupted near Baksa jail during the transfer of five accused in Zubeen Garg’s death case. The incident occurred after a Guwahati court remanded the accused to judicial custody.
Police Investigation Underway
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ujjal Pratim Baruah stated that several more suspects involved in the unrest have been identified, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend them. “We have arrested nine people so far. More have been identified. Some of the accused are absconding but we will apprehend them soon,” he said, emphasizing that the investigation is being taken very seriously.
Baruah reassured genuine fans of Garg, saying that “those who incited the violence in the guise of being fans have been identified,” and have been dealt with appropriately.
Details of the Violence
The unrest involved stone-pelting at vehicles carrying the accused and torching of multiple vehicles. Police personnel and media representatives sustained injuries while attempting to control the crowd. Security forces resorted to baton charges and tear gas shells to restore order.
Following the violence, internet and mobile data services were suspended in the district but were restored once the situation normalized. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of BNSS remain in effect in Mushalpur town and surrounding areas. Security has been tightened in and around Baksa jail.
Background of the Case
Zubeen Garg, the celebrated singer-composer, died while swimming in Singapore on September 19 during the 4th North East India Festival (NEIF).
The five accused lodged at Baksa jail include:
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NEIF chief organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta
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Garg’s manager Siddhartha Sharma
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His cousin and police officer Sandipan Garg
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Personal security officers Nandeswar Bora and Prabin Baishya
Two additional accused, band members Shekharjyoti Goswami and Amritprava Mahanta, were remanded to judicial custody and taken to Haflong prison in Dima Hasao district.
A 10-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) from the Assam Police CID is conducting a thorough probe into Garg’s death.
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