If the issue is about Ashok Singhal’s land, target him directly, but leave Zubeen out of it: Assam CM

Amid the growing controversy over Assam Cabinet Minister Ashok Singhal’s alleged land purchase near Zubeen Kshetra in Sonapur, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday, November 13, strongly defended the sanctity of the memorial site and urged the media not to drag late singer Zubeen Garg’s name into political disputes.

Addressing reporters, the Chief Minister condemned attempts to link Zubeen Kshetra to Singhal’s alleged land dealings, stating that such connections were “unnecessary and disrespectful.” He clarified that the state government had ensured that the size of Zubeen Garg’s Samadhi Kshetra would not surpass that of the ‘Samannay Kshetra’ dedicated to Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, emphasizing the cultural hierarchy and emotional significance associated with both icons.

“If we build a samadhi larger than Bhupen Hazarika’s, future generations will question us,” Sarma said. “Both Bhupen Hazarika and Zubeen Garg are beloved gems of Assam. One cannot be placed above or below the other. Your questions indirectly disrespect Bhupen Hazarika, which is what pains me.”

The Chief Minister added that the government allotted land for Zubeen Kshetra based on contextual needs and conditions: “If today’s generation commits an error, future generations will not forgive us.”

On the allegations tied to Minister Ashok Singhal, Sarma said the issue should be examined on its own merits without involving Zubeen’s legacy. “If Ashok Singhal owns land there, address his land issue separately. Why drag Zubeen’s name into it? You are attempting to place him at the centre of an unnecessary controversy,” he remarked.

Sarma further pointed out that other high-profile individuals had purchased land in tribal belts but were not subjected to similar scrutiny. “Even Jayanta Baruah has land in the tribal belt, nobody reported that. I’ve heard Ruby Baruah also has land there. Why single out Singhal? If there is resentment against him, take him on directly, but don’t pull Zubeen into this.”

Urging restraint and respect for the late singer, Sarma concluded, “Zubeen is resting peacefully. Please do not disturb him with needless controversies.”