Why only seven? Non-resident Assamese at yacht must face probe too: Garima Saikia Garg

Amid growing public scrutiny and legal proceedings surrounding Assam singer and music icon Zubeen' Garg's death case, Garima Saikia Garg, speaking to the media on the developments, said the seven accused who were produced before the court today virtually, displayed no remorse.

 

Garima Garg reiterated that the accused must face the strictest punishment, describing the act as inhuman and unacceptable. Expressing confidence in the judicial process, she asserted that Zubeen Garg would ultimately receive justice, backed by what she termed as a robust legal strategy now in place.

 

She praised the newly appointed team of government advocates, stating that they have placed strong, precise, and well-founded arguments before the court. Garg also confirmed full cooperation with the Singapore Police, noting that international coordination remains crucial to the case.

 

Highlighting the complexities involved, Garima Garg pointed out that Singapore’s judicial system functions very differently from India’s legal framework and clarified that the trial process there is still at a preliminary stage. She further revealed that repeated demands have been made to bring Non-Resident Assamese present at the yacht on September 19, 2025 (the day Zubeen Garg died) under the ambit of investigation.

 

According to Garima, the tragic incident occurred due to gross negligence, and accountability must extend beyond the seven accused already named. “Just like the arrested accused, the Non-Resident Assamese individuals present at the yacht are equally responsible,” she said, adding that an application has once again been submitted to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) seeking their inclusion in the probe.

 

Meanwhile, Advocate Apurba Sharma informed that the hearing on the bail application is scheduled for 22 January, while the regular hearing of the case will take place on 30 January. The defence has submitted an application citing the deteriorating health condition of the accused and has sought appropriate medical treatment.

 

Advocate Sharma also stressed the need for the trial to be conducted through a special court, arguing that only day-to-day hearings would ensure swift justice for Zubeen Garg. “Delays will only weaken public faith. A fast-tracked trial is essential,” he asserted.