Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has dismissed opposition demands for a CBI investigation into the death of popular singer Zubeen Garg, expressing confidence in the state police’s SIT-led probe. Sarma noted that the call for a central investigation mirrored the demands of accused Shyamkanu Mahanta, raising questions about the motives behind it.

Amid rising controversy, Sarma announced the formation of a judicial commission, headed by Justice Soumitra Saikia of the Gauhati High Court, to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding Garg’s death.

The Chief Minister defended the SIT investigation, stating that all accused have been arrested and that the Assam Police have managed even the international aspects of the case efficiently. He also acknowledged the legal right of Mahanta and others to approach the Supreme Court seeking a CBI probe but questioned the timing and coordination of these demands by opposition leaders and the accused.

Currently in detention, Mahanta has requested the appointment of a retired Supreme Court judge to oversee the investigation, intensifying calls for independent supervision in this sensitive case.