Massive candlelight march held in Bijoynagar demanding justice for Zubeen

Thousands took to the streets of Bijoynagar, Assam on Wednesday, October 8 evening, lighting candles in memory of Assam’s legendary singer and cultural icon, Zubeen Garg, and demanding justice over his mysterious death.

The massive candlelight rally, organized at Batarhat’s Durga Mandir, proceeded peacefully along National Highway 17, stretching through Bijoynagar to Uparhali. Participants, carrying candles and mobile flashlights, sang Zubeen’s soulful song “Mayabini Ratir Bukut”, turning the night into an emotional tribute that echoed with collective sorrow and remembrance.

The rally witnessed a significant turnout from various political and social groups. Among those present were Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi, Assam Pradesh Mahila Congress president Mira Barthakur, MLAs Rakibuddin Ahmed and Nandita Das, and Kamrup District Congress president Pranjit Das.

Leaders from other organizations, including Assam Jatiya Parishad leader Pankaj Lochan Goswami, also joined the gathering, underscoring that the demand for justice has transcended political boundaries to become a people’s movement.

Speaking to reporters during the rally, Gaurav Gogoi strongly criticized the ruling dispensation, questioning the government’s priorities. “The Centre can fund events like the ‘Northeast Festival’ but cannot ensure transparency in the investigation into Zubeen Garg’s death,” Gogoi said.

He further alleged that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was attempting to protect Shyamkanu Mahanta by diverting public attention. Gogoi also claimed that the deletion of the Chief Minister’s old Facebook account was a deliberate attempt to erase crucial photographs that could expose hidden truths. “If those old files are retrieved, many realities will come to light,” he added.