The All Assam Lawyers’ Association has declared that it will not represent the accused in cases linked to the death of celebrated singer Zubeen Garg, citing social responsibility and moral duty. The association described offering legal support in such a matter as a “historic mistake.”
Garg, one of Assam’s most beloved cultural icons, died in Singapore on September 19, triggering an outpouring of grief and sparking suspicions of foul play. His death has led to widespread demands for accountability and justice.
In a statement, the lawyers’ body said the decision was a collective mark of respect for Garg’s immense contributions to Assamese culture. “Our stance is rooted in social responsibility. We believe that justice must take precedence over technical defence in this case,” it said.
Since Garg’s death, multiple FIRs have been filed across Assam against organisers of the Northeast India Festival in Singapore, which the singer had travelled to attend, as well as against his manager Siddhartha Sarma.
The state government has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the circumstances surrounding the singer’s demise. The lawyers’ association stressed that only a fair and unhindered investigation can establish the truth.
Garg’s death has left a deep scar on the Assamese community. The association noted that its decision reflects the strong public sentiment demanding justice and underscored its moral obligation to stand with the people.
“The association’s commitment is to justice and to the people’s desire for accountability in this matter,” the statement added.
The move by the legal fraternity marks a rare instance of collective refusal to defend accused persons, signalling the depth of public mourning and the demand for answers surrounding the untimely loss of one of Assam’s greatest voices.
Also read: SIT raids home of Zubeen's manager
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