Zubeen Garg Murder Case Update: Ex-Manager Killed Him for Money, SIT Tells Court
Guwahati — The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the death of Assamese music legend Zubeen Garg has told a sessions court that his former manager, Siddharth Sharma, allegedly killed the singer for financial gain. Investigators said Sharma invested Rs 1.1 crore in a packaged drinking water business using money allegedly embezzled from Garg. The development adds a dramatic new motive to a case that has gripped India and Assam since the singer’s suspicious death in Singapore in September 2025.
The SIT made the submission on January 3, 2026, before the Kamrup (Metro) sessions court, seeking an attachment and forfeiture order for the water plant acquired by Sharma. The court then issued notices to Sharma and his business partner, Chetan Dhirasaria, asking them to respond by January 17 on why the unit should not be attached.
According to court records, the SIT chief investigator, Rosie Kalita, argued that the funding of the water plant was central to understanding the alleged premeditated murder. The petition stated that if an attachment order is not granted, Sharma and Dhirasaria could liquidate the assets, rendering future compensation claims moot.
The allegations paint a complex picture involving alleged money misappropriation, benami transactions, and potential money laundering tied to the deaths of one of India’s most celebrated cultural figures. The case has incited debate both within legal circles and among the public in Assam and beyond.
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What Prosecutors Allege in Court
The SIT’s submission stressed that financial motives played a significant role in the singer’s death. Court documents state that Sharma’s investments using Garg’s money were among the key motives that led to premeditation. The judge noted that the investigation has uncovered substantial evidence suggesting irregularities in Sharma’s financial dealings and ownership of the Mahabir Aqua Water Plant in Chaygaon, about 40 km from Guwahati.
Investigators also said that Sharma earned a modest salary of Rs 57,000 per month until November 2022. The sudden influx of large sums raised red flags during the SIT’s probe. The court also noted “benami transactions and money laundered by Sharma” as core issues in the case.
Alongside Sharma and Dhirasaria, six other accused were produced in court via video conferencing. These include Singapore festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, band member Sekhar Goswami, co-singer Amritprava Mahanta, Zubeen’s cousin, and his personal security officers (PSOs). The prosecution alleges that all were involved either in the planning or cover-up of the crime.
Court Proceedings and Legal Timelines
On January 3, 2026, the court deferred further hearings on charge consideration until January 17, citing the voluminous nature of the chargesheet. The prosecution informed the court that the investigation file runs over 12,000 pages. All seven accused, including Sharma and Mahanta, appeared from jail via video link.
The defence teams for the accused have requested more time, while the prosecution seeks to counter bail pleas filed by several defendants. Sharma’s private legal team has also applied to replace the legal aid defence counsel. Meanwhile, the late singer’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, urged the government to form a strong public prosecution team and expedite trial proceedings due to the sheer scale of witness testimony and evidence.
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Background: From Accidental Death to Murder Probe
Zubeen Garg, a multifaceted singer, songwriter, actor, and cultural icon, died on September 19, 2025, in Singapore while attending the North East India Festival. Initial reports described his death as accidental drowning during a yacht outing. However, the circumstances later drew intense scrutiny by Assamese police after multiple FIRs were filed accusing those present during the event of negligence and other wrongdoing.
Earlier in the investigation, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and SIT arrested Sharma and Mahanta in Delhi, flying them to Guwahati for questioning under suspicion of culpable homicide, conspiracy, and negligence. The SIT has since expanded charges and escalated the legal battle beyond a simple accident narrative.
Public reaction has been mixed, with some voices questioning the direction of the probe and others demanding justice for the late artist. In recent weeks, observers have also noted criticism of how the chargesheet was prepared and publicised.
Wider Impact on Assam and Music Community
Zubeen Garg death sent shockwaves through India’s cultural landscape, especially in Assam where he was revered by millions. His influence spanned decades and genres, making the investigation’s developments deeply personal for fans and peers alike. Many called for transparency and a thorough judicial process given the singer’s iconic status.
As courts prepare for further hearings and legal arguments unfold, the case continues to shed light on alleged financial misconduct and its deadly consequences. The trial promises to be a landmark legal battle in Indian entertainment and criminal justice circles.