Zubeen Garg death case: Viral post-mortem report declared 'fake'
What's the story
The controversy surrounding the death of popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg took a new turn on Tuesday evening. A purported post-mortem report of the singer was leaked online, despite earlier assurances from authorities that it would remain confidential. The so-called "secret" document started circulating on platforms like WhatsApp and X (formerly Twitter) on October 14. It went viral within hours, sparking public speculation and outrage.
Official statement
SIT chief labels leaked document as 'fake'
The Head of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), who is also the Special Director General of Police (SDGP), Assam Police, has dismissed the leaked document as fake. He said, "The document lacks a doctor's signature which is mandatory for any valid post-mortem report. Therefore it is not authentic." He added that a detailed investigation has been launched to trace the origin of this forged report.
Warning
Legal action warned against those spreading misinformation
The SIT chief has warned of strict legal consequences for spreading misinformation. He said, "Spreading fake news is a punishable offense. Stern action will be taken against those responsible for circulating such fabricated material." Earlier, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had stressed that the autopsy findings would remain confidential until the investigation is over.
Legal proceedings
Prime accused sent to judicial custody
Meanwhile, the five prime accused in Garg's death case were remanded to judicial custody for 14 days on Wednesday. The accused, Shyamkanu Mahanta, Siddharth Sharma, Sandipan Garg, Nandeshwar Bora, and Paresh Baishya, were produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) on the morning of October 15. Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Munna Prasad Gupta confirmed that police did not seek an extension of their custody.
Safety concerns
Accused shifted to Baksa District Jail
During the hearing, the accused requested that the court not send them to Guwahati Central Jail, citing safety concerns. The court then directed that they be kept in a secure correctional facility. Following this order, all five have been shifted to Baksa District Jail, a newly constructed high-security prison located about 80km from Guwahati. The jail was inaugurated by Chief Minister Sarma in June 2025.