Zubeen Garg’s Farewell: Were Fans Really Given a Fair Chance to Pay Tribute?

The farewell of Assam’s beloved musical icon Zubeen Garg at Sarusajai Stadium has left fans heartbroken and outraged—not just from grief, but from the chaotic handling of the event. What was meant to be a solemn tribute turned into a scene of frustration, confusion, and even allegations of police high-handedness.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a press conference after a cabinet meeting, had claimed that some ministers and MLAs had entered through the back gates of Sarusajai, fostering a VIP culture he vowed to end. “I will never allow that. Only Zubeen Garg’s fans can enter there. From tomorrow, everyone will have to queue like ordinary people,” the CM declared.

Yet, the reality on the ground told a different story. Several fans complained of long hours spent waiting in the scorching sun, without proper food, only to be rushed past the mortal remains of their idol. “This is not how the police should have behaved with us. We have been waiting two days without food just to see Zubeen Da,” lamented one grieving fan.

Others pointed to preferential treatment for VIPs. “Only high-profile people were allowed to pay their respects properly. We, the common people whom Zubeen Da truly loved, were pushed away within seconds,” said another fan, highlighting the stark contrast between public mourning and official protocol.

The crowd management—or lack thereof—fueled frustration further. Mourners complained of no clear queues, no guidance, and police personnel present seemingly only for show. A female fan recounted being shoved by security while offering her tribute, which led to her phone breaking. “The police should know better than to push women in such a moment,” she said.

Amidst this, questions arise about whether VIPs themselves should bypass queues. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal paid his respects without following any formal guidelines. Bollywood singer Angaraag “Papon” Mahanta was also on his way to Sarusajai to pay tribute—would he, too, have special privileges?

The CM has urged fans to adhere to the ethics and rules laid down by his administration to prevent further chaos. But the unprecedented crowd pressure continues. Earlier, Sarusajai and the LGBI Airport witnessed tense situations as fans converged from all sides, leading authorities to resort to a lathi charge to maintain order and safety.

The massive turnout across Assam reflects Zubeen Garg’s unparalleled popularity, yet the mismanagement and VIP favoritism have left a bitter aftertaste. As fans mourn the singer, the real question remains: should grief, respect, and public sentiment be subjected to protocol—and who decides which mourners are truly “ordinary” and which are VIPs?

Also Read: Heat, Rain and Grief Take Toll as Fans Fall Ill at Zubeen Garg’s Tribute