According to a statement from the SPF, the case is being investigated in accordance with Singapore’s Coroners Act, 2010. “Based on preliminary investigations, the SPF does not suspect foul play,” the official statement said.
Garg, aged 52, was in Singapore as the cultural brand ambassador for the North East India Festival scheduled for September 20–21. A day before the event, he joined members of the Assam Association Singapore for a yacht outing. During the trip, he reportedly lost consciousness while swimming and was rushed to Singapore General Hospital, where doctors declared him dead.
The death certificate issued by Singaporean authorities lists the official cause of death as “drowning.”
Coroner’s Inquiry Underway
The SPF confirmed that the case remains under review as part of standard procedure. The findings of the investigation will be submitted to the State Coroner, who will decide whether to hold a Coroner’s Inquiry (CI). A CI is a fact-finding process led by a judicial officer to determine the cause and circumstances of death.
“Upon completion of the SPF’s investigations, which may take up to another three months, the findings will be made public upon conclusion,” the SPF added in its statement.
Parallel Probe in Assam
Meanwhile, in India, the Assam Police continue to investigate the case under charges of murder, criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide not amounting to murder, and negligence. Seven individuals have been arrested so far and are currently in judicial custody following interrogation.
Additionally, seven Singapore-based NRIs have been questioned in connection with the incident. A special investigation team (SIT) led by IPS officer Munna Prasad Gupta is spearheading the probe and is expected to visit Singapore next week to coordinate with local authorities.
Public Reaction and Cultural Loss
The death of Zubeen Garg has sparked immense grief across Assam and the North East. Fans have flooded social media platforms with tributes to the iconic artist, known for his songs in Assamese, Hindi, and several regional languages.
Garg’s contribution to music, cinema, and cultural identity made him a symbol of Assamese pride. He was also deeply involved in social initiatives and youth programs in the region. His passing has left an irreplaceable void in India’s cultural landscape.
Awaiting Final Closure
As both Singaporean and Indian authorities continue their respective investigations, the official coroner’s findings are expected to provide clarity on the circumstances leading to his tragic death. Until then, fans and family await closure on the loss of one of Assam’s most celebrated voices.