Guwahati, Sept 27:
The investigation into the death of Assam’s musical icon Zubeen Garg has taken a dramatic turn after the Special Investigation Team (SIT), along with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), raided the residence of Shyamkanu Mahanta in Guwahati on September 25.
Mahanta, the chief organiser of the North East India Festival in Singapore, was the key person who facilitated Zubeen’s travel abroad for the event. He has now been booked under Sections 61(2), 105, and 106(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
The development has further intensified public anger across Assam, with large-scale protests demanding immediate arrests and a transparent probe into the singer’s untimely demise.
🔎 What Do These BNS Sections Mean?
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BNS Section 61(2):
Relates to culpable homicide not amounting to murder in aggravated situations. It also covers criminal conspiracy to commit an offence punishable with death or life imprisonment. -
BNS Section 105:
Deals with abetment, instigation, or conspiracy leading to a crime. In cases causing death (but not murder), it prescribes life imprisonment or a term of 5–10 years with fine. -
BNS Section 106(1):
Covers acts endangering life or causing death by negligence. It applies when an act is rash or negligent to a criminal degree, leading directly to death. For medical negligence, it prescribes two years’ imprisonment and a fine.
📰 Growing Unrest in Assam
The raid at Mahanta’s residence comes amid escalating protests across the state. Outraged fans and civil society groups have taken to the streets, accusing organisers and associates of negligence and foul play in Zubeen’s death.
The Assam Lawyers’ Body has also refused to defend the accused in the case, a rare move that underscores the gravity of the situation.
Officials said Mahanta is expected to face further questioning by the SIT in the coming days, as investigators continue to piece together the circumstances leading to Zubeen’s sudden death in Singapore.
📌 Conclusion
The booking of Shyamkanu Mahanta under stringent BNS provisions marks a major step in the ongoing investigation. With protests mounting and public pressure intensifying, all eyes are now on the SIT’s next course of action.
The case continues to dominate headlines as Assam awaits justice for its beloved music icon.
