Assam Chief Minister Condemns Congress Over Zubeen Garg Manifesto Promise
In a fiery address on Tuesday, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched a blistering condemnation of the Congress party for what he termed the politicization of beloved singer Zubeen Garg's tragic death. The controversy centers on Congress including a pledge in its election manifesto to deliver justice for Garg's demise within 100 days.
'An Unpardonable Crime' - Sarma's Strong Words
Chief Minister Sarma did not mince words, labeling the manifesto commitment as "an unpardonable crime" that crosses ethical boundaries. He emphasized that in India's judicial system, judgments are exclusively delivered by courts, not political parties making campaign promises.
"Congress has committed an unpardonable crime by including Zubeen's name and his death in its election manifesto," Sarma declared forcefully. "If Congress genuinely wants to pay tribute to Zubeen, they should hire competent lawyers rather than exploiting his memory for electoral advantage."
Exploitation of Tragedy for Political Gain
The Chief Minister expressed profound disappointment that a cultural icon cherished by all Assamese people had become a political football. He revealed disturbing details about a video showing members of a consultancy firm hired by Congress discussing strategies to leverage Zubeen Garg's death at multiple levels to secure votes.
"Zubeen was very dear to all Assamese, and it is both unfortunate and deeply saddening to see his name being used so cynically for votes," Sarma stated with evident emotion. "If I return as chief minister, I will ensure all members of this consultancy firm face arrest for engaging in such dirty politics and conspiracy."
Contrasting Approaches to Remembrance
Sarma highlighted what he described as fundamentally different approaches to honoring Zubeen Garg's memory. While acknowledging his own multiple visits to Garg's memorial conducted privately without media attention, he criticized Congress leaders for what he characterized as performative visits accompanied by cameras.
"Zubeen himself famously said 'politics nokoriba, bondhu' - don't indulge in politics, friends," Sarma reminded the public. "Let the singer rest in peace rather than becoming a political tool. Nobody has previously stooped to this level of disgusting politics by invoking Zubeen's name to seek votes, and the people will deliver appropriate punishment at the ballot box."
Judicial Process Versus Political Promises
The Chief Minister clarified constitutional boundaries, explaining that while governments can establish fast-track courts and appoint prosecution lawyers, actual judgments remain the exclusive domain of the judiciary. He expressed confidence that the ongoing judicial process would deliver justice more swiftly than Congress's 100-day promise.
"From the proceedings that began Monday in the fast-track court, I believe justice will be delivered within a month, not even requiring 100 days," Sarma projected optimistically. "We anticipate positive developments within this timeframe."
Broader Context of the Controversy
Sarma expanded his criticism to include Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who personally released the manifesto containing the controversial pledge. The Chief Minister recalled previous remarks by Kharge's son that he claimed insulted Assam's youth by suggesting insufficient local talent for the semiconductor industry.
"Given such attitudes, can people genuinely believe Congress will deliver justice for Zubeen Garg?" Sarma questioned rhetorically.
Background of the Case
The Gauhati High Court has established an exclusive fast-track sessions court specifically to hear Zubeen Garg's case, with the Assam government providing necessary logistical support. Assam Police's Criminal Investigation Department has already filed a charge sheet naming seven accused individuals, all currently in judicial custody.
Zubeen Garg, the 52-year-old musical icon of Assam, tragically died while swimming in the sea in Singapore on September 19 last year. He had traveled to participate in the North East India Festival, leaving behind a legacy cherished across the region and beyond.
