Situation ‘normal’ in Assam’s Baksa after unrest over Zubeen Garg death case accused

Dispur: Authorities in Assam’s Baksa district have restored internet and mobile data services after confirming that the situation has returned to normal following two days of unrest linked to the Zubeen Garg death case.

The violence began when protesters opposed the transfer of five accused — including Garg’s manager, cousin, and two security officers — to Baksa District Jail. The convoy carrying them was attacked by demonstrators who demanded that the accused be handed over to the public “to ensure justice for Zubeen.” Police were forced to use lathi-charge and tear gas after the crowd set several vehicles, including police and media cars, on fire.

According to officials, two people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the violence, while fifteen others have been identified from video footage. Security has been strengthened in and around the Baksa jail, and prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) remain in force in Mushalpur town and nearby areas.

“The situation is under control, and all steps are being taken to prevent further violence,” an official said.

The accused — North East India Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Garg’s manager Siddhartha Sharma, cousin and police officer Sandipan Garg, and personal security officers Nandeswar Bora and Prabin Baishya — were sent to judicial custody earlier this week after their police remand ended.

A Kamrup court had ordered their transfer to a less crowded jail for safety reasons. The newly built Baksa District Jail at Mushalpur, which was inaugurated two months ago and is largely unoccupied, was chosen for this purpose.

Singer Zubeen Garg, one of Assam’s most popular musicians, died in Singapore on 19 September after reportedly drowning while swimming in the sea.
(With PTI inputs)