No Foul Play In Zubeen Garg's Death: Singapore Police Issue Official Statement

Agencies, 17 October 2025, SINGAPORE/ASSAM : The death of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, which has shocked fans and authorities alike, has taken a new turn. In an official statement, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) clarified that there is no suspicion of foul play in the 52-year-old’s death, based on their preliminary investigation. The police have also emphasized that several unverified speculations surrounding the incident are misleading and urged the public to refrain from spreading false information.

The singer tragically passed away on September 19, 2025, while in Singapore for the Northeast India Festival. He was reportedly swimming when he was found unconscious and rushed to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries despite doctors’ best efforts.

Singapore Police Investigation

The Singapore Police Force, as part of their investigation, referred to the Coroners Act of 2010, which governs such cases, stating that further investigation would be conducted over the next few months. "Upon completion of the SPF’s investigations, which may take up to three months or so, the findings will be submitted to the State Coroner in Singapore," the statement explained. The Coroner will then decide whether a formal inquiry is required to establish the cause and circumstances of death.

The SPF also shared that they had already provided the High Commission of India a copy of the autopsy report and their preliminary findings as of October 1, 2025.

The police reiterated their commitment to a thorough and professional investigation, urging the public to avoid speculation. “We seek the patience and understanding of the parties involved. Meanwhile, we urge the public not to speculate and spread unverified information," the statement concluded.

Assam CID Forms SIT to Investigate Further

Back in Assam, where Zubeen Garg’s death has left a deep void, the state government has ramped up its own investigation. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Assam CID has already questioned several individuals linked to the case. Among those arrested are the event's organizer Shyamkanu Mahanta, Garg's manager Siddharth Sharma, his cousin Sandipan Garg (a suspended APS officer), and two personal security officers (PSOs), Nandeswar Bora and Shekhar Jyoti Goswami.

The five accused were remanded to judicial custody and lodged in Baksa jail. As part of the investigation, Munna Gupta, head of the SIT, will travel to Singapore on October 20 to meet with Singaporean authorities. Gupta’s team will then meet their Singaporean counterparts on October 21. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed the visit, emphasizing that the team is fully committed to ensuring justice for the late cultural icon.

“The Singapore Police authorities will meet the Assam Police team led by Sri Munna Gupta, ADGP and Head of SIT, on 21st October. Our collective resolve remains — Justice for Zubeen will prevail,” Sarma stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday.

Speculations and Public Sentiment

Zubeen Garg’s death has sparked numerous rumors and conspiracy theories. The fact that Garg was found unconscious in the water near the venue where he was scheduled to perform has only fueled questions about the circumstances surrounding his demise. Some social media users have linked the event to negligence by organizers or other potential causes, while others have raised questions about the role of foul play.

In Assam, where Garg was a beloved cultural icon, the emotional impact has been immense. Vigils and candle-lighting ceremonies have been held in his memory, and his fans continue to demand answers. Chief Minister Sarma and other political leaders have been vocal in their commitment to a thorough investigation, promising to ensure that all those responsible, if any, are held accountable.

A Nation Mourns

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the many figures who paid tribute to Garg following his untimely death. Acknowledging his immense contribution to Assamese music and culture, Modi expressed his sorrow at the passing of the legend.

In Guwahati, Garg was cremated with full state honors, and a 21-gun salute was fired in tribute. His death has been deeply felt by millions across Assam and beyond, with his songs continuing to play on a loop in public spaces, a testament to his lasting legacy in the cultural landscape of Assam.

Timeline of Events:

• September 19, 2025: Zubeen Garg dies in Singapore after being rescued from the sea.

• October 1, 2025: Singapore Police Force shares the autopsy report and preliminary findings with the High Commission of India.

• October 17, 2025: Singapore Police issue an official statement confirming no foul play suspected in Garg’s death.

• October 20-21, 2025: Assam SIT team led by Munna Gupta travels to Singapore for further investigation.

• November 2025: Assam SIT expected to submit its final report on the investigation.

As investigations continue, the people of Assam and fans worldwide are holding onto the hope that the full truth behind the singer's untimely death will be revealed. For now, the focus remains on the ongoing cooperation between the authorities in Assam and Singapore, as both work to uncover the cause of death and address the questions lingering in the minds of millions of grieving fans.