The Assam government has decided to transfer ₹2.90 crore, its share of state GST collected from the Assamese film Roi Roi Binale, to the Kalaguru Foundation established by late musician Zubeen Garg. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during a New Year media interaction titled Natun Diner Alap.

The chief minister said the transfer amount, generated from the film’s box office earnings, would be released by Friday. Roi Roi Binale grossed around ₹32 crore, making it the highest-grossing film in the history of Assamese cinema.

Sarma also said the state government is taking steps to expedite the legal process in connection with Garg’s death. A Special Public Prosecutor will be appointed for the case, with the name expected to be finalised by January 6 after consultations with senior criminal lawyers. The appointment is scheduled to be completed by January 12. The government will also request the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court to consider setting up a fast-track court for the trial.

Zubeen Garg died on September 19, 2025, while swimming during the North East India Festival in Singapore. Assam Police constituted a Special Investigation Team, which filed a charge sheet within three months. Seven persons have been chargesheeted under sections related to murder, culpable homicide, criminal conspiracy, and breach of trust.

The trial began last month at the Kamrup (Metro) District and Sessions Court. Those facing murder charges include NEIF chief Shyamkanu Mahanta, Garg’s secretary Siddhartha Sharma, musician Shekharjyoti Goswami, and singer Amritprava Mahanta. Garg’s cousin Sandipan Garg, a suspended police officer, has been charged with culpable homicide not amounting to murder, while two personal security officers face charges of conspiracy and misappropriation. The accused appeared before the court from Baksa and Haflong jails.

Reflecting on the year, Sarma said 2025 was a difficult year for Assam due to the death of Zubeen Garg and the developments that followed.