“Overnight Fandom Must Not Turn Into Madness” — Assam CM on Tribute Chaos at Sarusajai

In the wake of the untimely demise of legendary singer Zubeen Garg, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday appealed to the public to maintain restraint and decorum. Speaking to the media, Sarma strongly condemned acts of violence, unruly behavior, and any form of disrespect towards Zubeen Garg and his family, warning that the state government would take strict action against offenders.

“If anyone disrespects Zubeen Garg tonight, they will be arrested immediately. Those who have suddenly claimed to be his fans in the past two days and indulged in violence will face strict action. Their behavior prevented genuine well-wishers from paying their last respects,” Sarma stated.

The Chief Minister confirmed that police have collected video evidence of individuals involved in fights and unruly conduct at Sarusajai Stadium over the last two days, adding that action will be taken against them. He emphasized that such behavior goes against Assam’s cultural ethos of compassion, unity, and respect.

“Offensive remarks against one of Assam’s most beloved artists contradict our values. If Zubeen were alive today, he would have been deeply hurt to witness negativity directed at him and his loved ones,” Sarma said.

He further directed that shops and businesses must reopen from tomorrow after 2 pm. “Anyone attempting to forcibly keep shops closed will face legal action. We will not allow anyone to take the law into their own hands. Zubeen belonged to the public, not to unruly elements. Overnight fandom turning into chaos is unacceptable,” he added.

Sarma also condemned attacks on Zubeen’s family and team. “A pharmacy on Zoo Road was targeted, and Zubeen’s manager Siddharth Sharma and wife Garima Saikia Garg faced harassment on social media. I urge anyone with evidence to submit it to the CID. Verified claims will be supported, but unsubstantiated allegations will not be tolerated,” he said.

Regarding the investigation into Zubeen’s death, the Chief Minister stated that Assam Police will coordinate with authorities in Singapore. “We will send a letter rogatory through the Gauhati Court to Singapore, and a team from Assam Police will work alongside Singapore police to collect videos and other evidence,” he said.

Sarma also addressed attempts by political leaders to exploit the tragedy. “Leaders like Akhil Gogoi are trying to politicize the matter. Funeral arrangements are determined by the family and must be respected. My cabinet colleague Ranoj Pegu coordinated with the family; since Zubeen’s father is unwell, the main funeral will be conducted at Hatimura, Patarkuchi in Sonapur. The 13th-day event will take place in Jorhat, where his ashes will be taken, with family members including his wife Garima participating. While others, including Gaurav Gogoi, AASU, and Assam Sahitya Sabha, have accepted this plan, Akhil Gogoi continues to politicize the issue,” Sarma said.

He added that the mismanagement at Sarusajai Stadium was caused by fake fans, which prevented genuine well-wishers from paying tribute. “I will not allow this to continue. Our priority is to conduct Zubeen’s final rites with due respect. Targeting his wife on social media or politicizing his death is unacceptable. The grief of a mother or wife cannot be replaced by fans. This is not Assamese culture,” Sarma asserted.

Concluding his remarks, the Chief Minister reiterated that the government will ensure Zubeen Garg’s final rites are carried out peacefully and with dignity.

READ MORE: Assam to Observe Holiday on September 23 for Zubeen Garg’s State Funeral