GUWAHATI – The controversy surrounding the untimely demise of Assam’s cultural icon, Zubeen Garg, has intensified as his widow, Garima Saikia Garg, filed a formal complaint against writer Sikha Sarma for allegedly making derogatory comments about the late singer.
The FIR was lodged at the Crime Branch of Assam Police on Monday morning, coincidentally marking exactly four months since the singer’s passing.
Allegations of Character Defamation
According to the complaint, Sikha Sarma authored several social media posts that targeted Zubeen Garg’s character and questioned the circumstances leading to his death. Sarma reportedly advocated for the release of Shyamkanu Mahanta, Siddhartha Sarma, and Sandipan Garg, who are currently under scrutiny in relation to the case.
In one of her contentious Facebook posts, Sarma questioned the singer’s agency, writing:
“Shyamkanu Mahanta had invited Zubeen Garg to Singapore. Why did Zubeen go? Is he a baby that he needs to follow whatever people ask him?”
She further attributed his death to personal struggles, stating that his history with alcoholism had “severely weakened his physical strength” and that his decision to go swimming was an act of “mental determination” over physical reality.
Legal Action and Public Outcry
Garima Garg’s complaint emphasizes that these public statements have:
- Tarnished the reputation and legacy of the legendary artist.
- Caused immense emotional distress to the grieving family.
- Interfered with the public perception of the ongoing investigation.
The Zubeen Garg Fan Club has joined the legal battle, reportedly filing a separate FIR at the Dispur Police Station. They are demanding strict action against the writer for what they term “insensitive and defamatory” content during a period of state-wide mourning.
The Crime Branch is expected to begin a preliminary inquiry by analyzing the digital footprints and social media content cited in the FIR. Authorities have indicated that they will examine whether the posts constitute defamation or incitement under relevant sections of the law.
Zubeen Garg, whose influence spanned decades in the North East music and film industry, passed away four months ago, leaving behind a massive void in the region’s cultural landscape.
Leave a comment