Raijor Dal president and Sibsagar MLA Akhil Gogoi on Tuesday launched an indefinite hunger strike in Guwahati’s Chachal, intensifying calls for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the death of Assam’s music icon Zubeen Garg.
Addressing reporters, Gogoi strongly criticized the state government and police, questioning their failure to arrest those allegedly linked to Garg’s death. “When petty thieves are subjected to encounters, why are the accused in Zubeen Garg’s case allowed to hold Facebook live sessions and enjoy Durga Puja holidays?” he asked.
Gogoi further alleged a massive financial scam involving the North East Festival, claiming that several political leaders were beneficiaries. He urged the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to step in and conduct a thorough investigation.
Raising concern over the detention of Ajay Phukan and Victor Das under the National Security Act (NSA), the Raijor Dal chief demanded their immediate release and sought a public clarification from Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya regarding the grounds of their arrest.
He also questioned the timing of a fashion show reportedly organized by Riniki Bhuyan Sharma soon after Zubeen Garg’s death, insisting that those associated with the event must explain their actions before the public.
“Seeking justice for Zubeen Garg cannot be considered sedition. If it is, then every Assamese is guilty of it,” Gogoi declared.
Earlier in the day, Gogoi, accompanied by party members, submitted a memorandum to Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at Raj Bhavan, pressing for a transparent probe into Garg’s death. Following the development, the Governor has announced that he will not take part in Durga Puja celebrations this year and will also skip his birthday on October 3.
Reiterating his determination, Gogoi stated, “I will continue my hunger strike until the Chief Minister himself comes to Chachal and addresses the people directly.”
