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All Assam Lawyers’ Association Declines to Represent Accused in Zubeen Garg Death Case
Sep 26, 2025In a rare and symbolic move, the All Assam Lawyers’ Association has announced that it will not represent any of the accused in the ongoing investigation into the death of iconic singer Zubeen Garg. The association said the decision reflects a collective sense of social responsibility and moral duty.
Zubeen Garg, one of Assam’s most beloved musical figures, died under mysterious circumstances in Singapore on September 19 while attending the Northeast India Festival. His sudden death has triggered widespread grief across the state and led to suspicions of foul play, prompting public demands for justice and accountability.
The Lawyers’ Association stated that offering legal support to individuals facing serious allegations in connection with Garg’s death would be a “historic mistake,” and emphasized the importance of standing with public sentiment.
“This is not just a legal matter—it’s a matter of conscience,” a representative of the association said. “Refusing representation is our way of honoring Zubeen Garg’s legacy and ensuring that the pursuit of justice remains uncompromised.”
Multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) have been filed across Assam against the organisers of the festival and key individuals close to the singer, including his manager Siddhartha Sarma. The allegations range from negligence to suspected criminal involvement.
In response to the mounting public pressure, the Assam government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to probe the case. The SIT has already initiated raids and questioned individuals named in the FIRs. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has assured full autonomy to the SIT and has indicated that the case could be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) if required.
The Lawyers’ Association also called for an environment where investigating agencies can operate freely and without interference, asserting that truth can only emerge through a fair and thorough investigation.
While the association’s decision has received praise from many in Assam’s cultural and civic communities, it has also sparked a debate within legal circles. Legal experts caution that blanket refusal to represent the accused could raise concerns regarding the right to legal counsel, a cornerstone of the Indian justice system.
Nonetheless, the association has stood firm, insisting that its decision reflects both respect for Zubeen Garg and a broader call for justice.
As investigations continue and public scrutiny intensifies, the case is rapidly evolving into one of Assam’s most closely watched legal and cultural flashpoints.
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