The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought a response from the Assam government on a bail petition filed by Shyamkanu Mahanta, an accused in the death case of renowned singer Zubeen Garg. A bench comprising Justices B V Nagarathna and Joymalya Bagchi issued notice and scheduled the matter for further hearing in July.
High Court Denied Bail in May
Mahanta challenged the Gauhati High Court's May 29 order that dismissed his bail plea. The high court had observed that it was not at all a fit case for granting bail, considering the seriousness of the allegations. Mahanta was arrested on October 1 last year in connection with the case and has remained in custody since.
Mysterious Death in Singapore
Zubeen Garg, a celebrated singer and composer from Assam, died under mysterious circumstances on September 19 last year while swimming in the sea near Singapore's Lazarus Island. He had traveled to Singapore to attend the 4th edition of the North East India Festival (NEIF). The incident sparked widespread shock and grief across the region.
Following the death, more than 60 First Information Reports (FIRs) were lodged across Assam, prompting the state government to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Assam Police to probe the matter.
Singapore Police and Coroner Findings
The Singapore Police Force conducted a separate investigation and concluded that there was no evidence of foul play. A coroner's court in Singapore ruled that Garg was intoxicated and drowned after declining a life jacket. However, Assam authorities have maintained that the Singapore findings would not affect the case in India.
Mahanta's Defense
In his bail application, Mahanta contended that he was not a part of any alleged conspiracy related to Garg's death. His legal team argued that there was insufficient evidence to link him to the crime. The Supreme Court has now sought the Assam government's stand on the matter before proceeding further.
The case continues to draw public attention, with fans and family seeking justice for the beloved singer whose untimely demise raised many questions.
