Court Takes the Next Step: What We Know So Far About Zubeen Garg’s Murder

In a significant development in the murder case of Assam’s iconic singer Zubeen Garg, the judicial process has moved a step forward with the chargesheet being formally served to all accused persons.

The case will now proceed towards trial, with the Kamrup Metropolitan Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court expected to take cognisance and commit the case to the Sessions Court on December 22.

All the accused were produced before the CJM court on Tuesday through video conferencing. As the accused are currently lodged in different jails, the copies of the chargesheet were provided to them inside the prison premises itself.

“The court will take cognisance of the case on December 22 and is likely to forward it to the Sessions Court. After that, the actual trial process will begin,” sources said.

Legal Aid Counsel Appointed

Another important development in the case is the appointment of a defence lawyer for the accused. Advocate Dhrubajyoti Das, appointed by the District Legal Services Authority, appeared on behalf of the accused during the proceedings.

“Following the court’s direction, the Legal Services Authority appointed Advocate Dhrubajyoti Das to represent the accused,” officials confirmed.

From now on, Advocate Das will represent the accused during all future court proceedings.

Emotional Scenes During Virtual Appearance

According to court sources, the accused appeared visibly anxious and mentally disturbed during the video conferencing session.

“All the accused looked tense. One of the accused, Amritprabha, was seen with teary eyes during the hearing,” sources added.

However, investigators maintain that there are no signs of physical deterioration among the accused.

Chargesheet Based on 349 Witness Statements

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed the chargesheet after examining 349 witnesses, clearly mentioning the offence of murder.

“The case will now be committed to the Sessions Court, where charges will be framed. After that, witnesses will be summoned for examination,” officials said.

The court will examine witness statements, many of which were earlier recorded before the SIT. Witnesses will be required to repeat their statements before the court, and the outcome of the trial will largely depend on their testimonies.

Next Course of Action

• December 22: Accused to be produced again via video conferencing

• CJM Court to take cognisance and commit the case to Sessions Court

• Framing of charges to follow

• Examination of witnesses to begin thereafter

Legal experts have also stressed the need for the state government to appoint a Special Public Prosecutor to ensure the case is conducted without any procedural loopholes.

“A Special Public Prosecutor is necessary to ensure the trial proceeds effectively and without delay,” legal experts opined.

Custody Status of Accused

Currently, five accused are lodged in Baksa District Jail, while two are in Haflong Jail.

As Assam waits for justice for one of its most beloved cultural icons, the question continues to echo in the minds of the people:

When will Zubeen Garg get justice?

Also Read: Seven Accused in Zubeen Garg Death Case to Appear Virtually in Guwahati Court