Assam CM welcomes Rahul Gandhi's visit to Zubeen Garg's residence
Guwahati, Oct 17
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday acknowledged Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the residence of late singer Zubeen Garg in Guwahati, describing it as a welcome gesture while also drawing a sharp comparison with the Congress party’s absence during the funeral of another Assamese legend, Dr Bhupen Hazarika.
LoP Rahul Gandhi, who met Zubeen Garg’s family earlier in the day and called for a transparent and time-bound probe into the singer’s mysterious death in Singapore, described the late artist as “honest, transparent, unshakable, and beautiful — like Mount Kanchenjunga.â€
His remarks came as part of his emotional tribute to Garg, who passed away nearly a month ago under circumstances that continue to raise questions in both India and Singapore.
Responding to LoP Rahul Gandhi’s visit, Sarma said the Congress leader’s arrival, though delayed, was appreciated.
“When Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika’s body was at Judge’s Field for public tribute and cremation, not a single senior Congress leader came during those three days,†Sarma recalled, referring to his own time in the Congress party.
“We were deeply saddened then. People kept asking us questions.â€
The Chief Minister, however, avoided turning the moment into a political confrontation.
“Better late than never. Since he came to pay tribute to our beloved artist, I welcome his visit to Assam. I don’t want to make any political comments about it,†Sarma said.
Sarma also acknowledged the diplomatic strain with Singapore amid the ongoing probe into Garg’s death, hinting at backchannel efforts to resolve the issue.
“There are certain tensions, but we are handling the matter sensitively. Our focus is on bringing justice and clarity for Zubeen Garg’s family and the people of Assam,†he noted.
LoP Rahul Gandhi’s visit — coming 28 days after Garg’s death — has drawn widespread attention across Assam, with both the state government and opposition parties emphasising the need for truth and transparency in the investigation.
— IANS
Reader Comments
CM Sarma made a valid point about Bhupen Hazarika's funeral. Why do politicians only wake up when it suits them? At least he's being gracious about welcoming Rahul Gandhi now.
Zubeen Garg was the voice of Assam! His songs touched millions across India. The comparison to Kanchenjunga is beautiful - he was indeed as majestic and steadfast in his principles. Hope the truth comes out soon.
Visiting after 28 days feels like political opportunism to me. If he genuinely cared, he would have come sooner. Still, better late than never as CM said.
As an Assamese, I appreciate that both sides are keeping politics aside for this sensitive matter. Zubeen da was more than just an artist - he was our cultural icon. The focus should be on getting answers from Singapore authorities.
The diplomatic handling mentioned by CM Sarma is crucial. India-Singapore relations are important, but justice for an Indian citizen should be the priority. Hope the backchannel efforts bear fruit.
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