Guwahati, October 1, 2025 — In a major development in the investigation into the death of legendary Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, two key suspects have been arrested, ending a 13-day manhunt that had gripped the state. Shyamkanu Mahanta, chief organiser of the North East India Festival, and Zubeen Garg’s manager Siddharth Sharma were taken into custody and brought to Guwahati under tight security.
Details of Arrests
Shyamkanu Mahanta was apprehended at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport shortly after midnight on October 1. Siddharth Sharma was arrested near a tollgate in Gurgaon while travelling from Rajasthan to Delhi. Both suspects were flown to Guwahati on Air India flight IX1197 and taken directly to the CID guesthouse in Geetanagar, where they were produced before the court. Images of the men in handcuffs at CID headquarters have circulated widely on social media, sparking intense discussion.
Charges and CID Investigation
According to the FIR filed by Senior Superintendent Ashif Ahmed, the suspects face eight sections of the BNSS, including charges ranging from criminal breach of trust to culpable homicide. Investigators allege large-scale financial misconduct involving fictitious billing for public works, including PMGSY projects in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, reportedly amounting to crores of rupees. Evidence seized includes multiple PAN cards under the same company, official stamps, seals, and other documents pointing to financial irregularities.
Digital Evidence and Tampering Concerns
The investigation is also focusing on potential digital tampering. Zubeen Garg’s mobile phone was reportedly in the possession of Siddharth Sharma after the singer’s death. Mahanta’s event websites for the North East Festival and Rongali Utsav were reportedly disabled before official deadlines, raising suspicions of deliberate deletion of key documents and photographs. Social media activity, including Mahanta’s Facebook account suspension, is also under scrutiny.
Public Reaction and Legal Proceedings
The arrests coincided with the singer’s 13-day funeral rituals, prompting strong reactions across Assam. While many citizens welcomed the arrests, civil society groups have demanded a transparent, impartial, and swift investigation. Questions remain about the timing of the arrests and whether influential networks delayed earlier action. Both suspects are now in 14-day CID custody at Ulubari as the probe enters its next phase. The Assam government and the Union Home Ministry have assured full cooperation with any international legal requirements linked to the case.
Next Steps
With emotions running high, the state watches closely as investigators continue to uncover the truth behind the death of one of Assam’s most beloved cultural icons. Authorities have promised regular updates as the investigation progresses.
