AASU Urges Assam Government to Lift Visiting Hour Restrictions at Zubeen Garg Memorial

The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) has demanded that the Assam government withdraw the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) imposing restricted visiting hours at Zubeen Kshetra, the memorial site of the late singer Zubeen Garg in Hatimura, Kamarkuchi, calling it "unnecessary and insensitive."

In a statement posted on social media, AASU President Utpal Sarma criticised the SOP, issued by Kamrup (Metropolitan) District Magistrate Sumit Sattawan, IAS, on October 23, which limits public access to the memorial from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The directive, following a Cabinet decision led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, also bans alcohol consumption and the entry of intoxicated individuals to preserve the site’s sanctity.

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Sarma argued that restricting access disregards the deep emotional connection people have with the late artist. “Zubeen Kshetra is more than a public space; it’s a sacred place of mourning for millions. Limiting visiting hours for the thousands of fans, including children, the elderly, and differently-abled individuals who come to pay their respects, is both insensitive and unwarranted,” he said.

Instead of time restrictions, Sarma suggested better management practices, such as deploying adequate security personnel, appointing caretakers, and using Breathalyser tests to prevent alcohol-related issues. “The government should focus on effective administration rather than imposing blanket restrictions,” he urged.

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He dismissed the time limits as an overreach, likening the decision to “shaving one’s head to avoid lice.” Sarma stressed that the gatherings at Zubeen Kshetra are peaceful expressions of grief, not chaotic assemblies, and that punishing all visitors for the actions of a few is unfair.

Sarma rejected comparisons between the memorial and public parks or heritage sites with fixed hours, emphasising Zubeen Kshetra’s unique cultural and emotional significance. “Assam can lead by example, showing that a memorial can remain accessible 24/7 while being well-managed, with brief closures for maintenance if needed,” he said.

Describing the public’s grief for Zubeen Garg as an unstoppable force, Sarma warned, “The love and sorrow for Zubeen are like the mighty Brahmaputra. Building unnecessary barriers will only cause a flood of discontent.”