The Assam government has decided to set up a judicial commission to probe the sudden and mysterious death of Assam’s most loved singer and cultural icon, Zubeen Garg. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while addressing people through a Facebook live session on Friday evening, said that the government wants the investigation to be “thorough, fair, and completely transparent.”
The commission will be headed by Justice Soumitra Saikia of the Gauhati High Court. The Chief Minister also appealed to the people of Assam and others who may have any information, photos, or videos related to Zubeen Garg’s last moments to come forward and provide them before the commission. “We want every truth to come out. If anybody has any evidence, no matter how small, please share it with the judicial body,” Sarma said.
Zubeen Garg passed away on September 19, 2025, in Singapore. He had travelled there to attend the 4th NorthEast India Festival and was reportedly swimming when the incident occurred. His death shocked the people of Assam and the Northeast, where Garg was not just a singer but a symbol of Assamese culture, identity, and youth spirit. 
The suddenness of his death left many questions unanswered. While initial reports suggested drowning, speculation and doubt grew rapidly, leading to widespread demand for a detailed probe. Across Assam, more than 60 First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered by individuals and organizations, asking for clarity on how the tragedy occurred.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Assam is already investigating the case. The department has been questioning people who were present in Singapore with Garg, including members of his personal security team. Earlier this week, two of his personal security officers (PSOs) were summoned by the CID for detailed interrogation. Officials said the aim was to reconstruct the events leading to the singer’s final moments.
With such a high volume of FIRs and growing public emotion, the government decided to form a judicial commission so that every angle is examined under judicial supervision.
A judicial commission is usually formed when the government feels that a sensitive issue requires a neutral and high-level probe led by a judge. Such a commission has the power to summon witnesses, collect evidence, and record testimonies under oath. Its findings are then submitted in a detailed report.
By appointing Justice Soumitra Saikia of the Gauhati High Court, the Assam government has tried to assure the people that this will not be an ordinary investigation but one that is monitored and guided at the highest level of the judiciary.
