The Singapore Police Force is investigating the death of Indian singer Zubeen Garg and has asked the public not to speculate or spread false information about the case.
The 52-year-old singer-songwriter died on 19 Sep 2025.
Garg was in Singapore to attend a cultural festival organised by the Assamese community. He was scheduled to perform on 20 Sep 2025. Multiple news outlets reported he had gone swimming and experienced breathing difficulties.
Police Statement and Investigation Timeline
The Singapore Police Force issued a statement on 17 Oct 2025. The case is being investigated under Singapore’s Coroners Act 2010.
Preliminary investigations found no evidence of foul play.
Police said they are aware of speculation and false information circulating online about Garg’s death.
“The police are committed to conducting a thorough and professional investigation into the case, and this takes time,” the police stated. “We seek the patience and understanding of the parties involved. Meanwhile, we urge the public not to speculate and spread unverified information.”
The investigation may take up to another three months to complete. Upon completion, the findings will be submitted to the State Coroner in Singapore, who will determine whether to hold a coroner’s inquiry.
A coroner’s inquiry is a fact-finding process led by a judicial officer to establish the cause and circumstances of death. If conducted, the findings will be made public upon conclusion.
Cooperation with Indian Authorities
The Singapore Police Force provided a copy of Garg’s autopsy report and preliminary findings to the High Commission of India on 1 Oct 2025 upon request.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated on 16 Oct 2025 that a special investigation team from the Assam police force would travel to Singapore to meet with authorities.
Parallel Investigation in India
A criminal case has been registered in Assam on several charges, including murder. Seven people have been arrested by Assam Police’s Special Investigation Team since 1 Oct 2025. The arrested individuals include the festival organiser and individuals who were with Garg in Singapore.
All seven arrested individuals have been remanded to judicial custody.
The special investigation team has questioned members of Assam Association Singapore, including its president Abhimanyu Talukdar. These members were on a boat with Garg.
Public Reaction in Assam
Garg’s death has provoked widespread anger in Assam. Fans have demanded an impartial and speedy inquiry.
On 16 Oct 2025, a large group of youth blocked a key road in Guwahati, the state’s largest city. They chanted slogans against the state government’s alleged failure to deliver quick justice, reported The Straits Times.
On 15 Oct 2025, a mob in Assam’s Baksa district attacked a police convoy transporting five people arrested in connection with Garg’s death to a jail.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Guwahati on 17 Oct 2025 to pay homage to the late singer and meet the bereaved family.
Garg’s Career and Legacy
Garg rose to stardom with the song Ya Ali from the 2006 movie Gangster. He was celebrated as both a musician and cultural icon in Assam.
Garg was cremated in Guwahati with state honours and a 21-gun salute. Over a million mourners attended the cremation.
