An open letter written by noted Assamese author and Sahitya Akademi awardee Dr. Rita Chowdhury to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has gone viral on social media. In the letter, Dr. Chowdhury expressed her deep concern over the restrictions imposed on public entry to the “Zubeen Kshetra,” the memorial site built in memory of late singer Zubeen Garg, whose untimely death continues to leave a void in the hearts of millions.
In her letter, Dr. Chowdhury said that people close to the Chief Minister often fail to show him the true picture of what the public is feeling. She wrote that some of the well-wishers surrounding the Chief Minister may not fully understand the real situation and could mislead him while making decisions. “This is where the possibility of errors in decision-making arises,” she warned.
The writer explained that most admirers of Zubeen Garg are ordinary people who work during the day and cannot visit the site at that time. Many of them travel from faraway places and, out of love and respect, visit the memorial at night. For them, she said, “their love and affection for Zubeen cannot be measured.” Dr. Chowdhury noted that many people are still unable to come to terms with the sudden loss of the beloved singer, and she included herself among those who continue to feel that pain. 
Dr. Chowdhury expressed concern that the decision to restrict entry to Zubeen Kshetra could have negative effects on young admirers. She cautioned that such steps might lead to psychological distress among them. “Anything from despair to rebellion could arise as a result,” she wrote, urging the administration to take a more sensitive approach in handling the emotions of the people.
She also told the government to remain respectful toward the state’s diverse tribal traditions while maintaining law and order. “We must also respect the diverse traditions of our tribal-majority state,” she said adding that the authorities must balance administrative responsibility with empathy for public sentiment.
The veteran writer said she rarely speaks out on public matters, but felt compelled to write this letter as a mother and as someone who cares deeply about the people of Assam. “As a responsible writer and a mother, I speak up only when I feel it is absolutely necessary,” she said. She also clarified that her statement was made independently and not under anyone’s influence.
Dr. Chowdhury in her letter urged the Chief Minister to reconsider the restrictions and make decisions with a compassionate heart. “At this sensitive time, I believe the right decision would be to act without fear and to avoid further complicating the situation,” she wrote, expressing hope that the Chief Minister would reflect on the matter once again.
