Siddharth Sharma linked-Mahavir Aqua operating 'secretly' despite closure orders, fresh plea filed in Gauhati HC

The controversy surrounding Mahavir Aqua, a packaged drinking water unit allegedly linked to Siddharth Sharma, former manager of late singer and music icon Zubeen Garg, has intensified following a fresh legal challenge to its seizure and allegations that the facility has been operating despite an earlier court order directing its closure.

The industrial unit, located at the Chhaygaon Industrial Development Centre in Assam, was sealed following directions issued by a fast-track court in connection with the ongoing investigation into the death of Zubeen Garg.

According to sources, the facility has allegedly been reopened and operating discreetly for some time despite the closure order. Local residents and other observers have claimed that the main gate of the premises remains closed while workers from outside are allegedly being engaged to carry out operations inside the facility.

The allegations have added a new dimension to the controversy surrounding the business entity, which came under the scanner during the investigation into the high-profile case.

Meanwhile, the legal dispute over Mahavir Aqua has reached the Gauhati High Court, with Chetan Dhirasariya, a business associate of Siddharth Sharma, challenging the seizure order issued by the fast-track court on April 29.

The lower court had directed the seizure of the packaged drinking water company after taking into consideration allegations that Sharma had invested funds in the enterprise. The court had also ordered the freezing of bank accounts associated with Sharma and those of several individuals who had financial transactions with him as part of the ongoing probe.

In his petition before the Gauhati High Court, Dhirasariya has argued that Mahavir Aqua is not exclusively owned by Sharma and that several stakeholders have interests in the business.

The petitioner has contended that the interests and rights of the other partners should be taken into account before any coercive action is enforced against the company. The plea has sought the setting aside or stay of the seizure order.

The latest allegations concerning the alleged reopening of the facility have also prompted questions over compliance with the court's closure directive. Sources said complaints had emerged that the unit was being operated away from public view despite the earlier order.

AASU South West Kamrup General Secretary Rinku Rabha has raised the issue and urged the administration to take necessary action.