Young protesters from Assam carried their demand for justice in the Zubeen Garg case beyond state borders, holding a symbolic protest at the Odisha coast. The movement, which has continued to gain traction since the singer’s tragic death in Singapore earlier this year, has now turned into a nationwide campaign seeking transparency and accountability.
The sea protest marked a new phase in what participants described as a “fight for truth.” Clad in black, the youth gathered at Chandrabhaga Beach near Puri on Sunday, holding banners and chanting slogans demanding a fair investigation into Zubeen Garg’s death. Their presence on the shore drew attention from locals and tourists alike, transforming the beach into a site of emotional expression and collective mourning.
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Youth Take Protest Beyond Assam
The movement, led by several student and cultural groups, began in Assam but has now spread to neighboring states. Organizers said the decision to stage a protest by the sea carried symbolic meaning, representing Zubeen’s deep connection with nature and his free-spirited personality. According to protest coordinator Ankur Nath, “The sea stands for freedom, depth, and truth—qualities that define Zubeen da. We came here to send a message that our demand for justice knows no boundaries.”
The protest included music sessions where participants sang Zubeen Garg’s popular songs such as “Ya Ali” and “Mayabini.” These performances were meant to celebrate the singer’s legacy while highlighting the call for justice. Several young artists from Odisha and West Bengal also joined the event, lending their voices in support.
Public Demands Transparent Probe
Since the Singapore Police Force ruled out foul play in the case, questions have continued to swirl around the circumstances of Zubeen Garg’s death. Fans and activists in Assam have urged both the central and state governments to initiate an independent probe. Protesters at Chandrabhaga reiterated this demand, stating that only a transparent investigation would bring closure to millions of fans.
“Zubeen Garg was more than an artist; he was an emotion for the people of Assam,” said Priyanka Dutta, one of the protestors. She added that the lack of clarity surrounding his death has only deepened the anguish among admirers. Protesters held placards that read “We Want Justice” and “Truth Must Prevail,” calling upon authorities to ensure full disclosure of the case details.
Emotional Outpouring at Sea
The mood at the Odisha protest was both solemn and powerful. Many attendees were seen lighting candles near the water’s edge as they sang Zubeen’s songs in unison. For them, the act of gathering by the sea was a collective way of coping with grief while channeling their emotions into peaceful activism.
One protester, Rahul Bora, said, “We didn’t come here for confrontation. We came to show that Zubeen’s voice still echoes through us. This is not just about one artist; it’s about how a society values truth and transparency.” His words resonated with hundreds gathered, many of whom had traveled from distant districts of Assam to join the symbolic demonstration.
Artists and Activists Unite
The Zubeen Garg justice protest has also brought together various artist groups and social activists across India’s northeast. Cultural organizations from Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh have issued statements supporting the movement. Meanwhile, social media campaigns under hashtags like #JusticeForZubeen and #TruthForZubeen have gained widespread traction, keeping public attention alive.
Renowned Assamese filmmaker Jahnu Barua recently voiced support for the movement, emphasizing that art and artists deserve protection and respect. “Zubeen’s contribution to Assamese culture is immense. The least we can do is ensure the truth of his passing is never hidden,” he said in a recent statement.
Police and Political Response
Authorities in Assam have maintained that they are in constant touch with Singapore officials and awaiting complete reports. However, protesters believe the response has been too slow. Many also accuse politicians of using the issue for publicity without ensuring any substantial progress in the investigation.
While no political party has officially joined the protests, several leaders have expressed concern over the growing frustration among youth. Sources indicate that the state government may soon request additional details from Singapore authorities through diplomatic channels.
A Movement Beyond Borders
What began as candlelight vigils in Guwahati has now transformed into a broader campaign crossing borders and communities. The sea protest in Odisha highlighted how Zubeen Garg’s influence extended beyond Assam, inspiring a generation that refuses to stay silent.
Protest organizers revealed that similar gatherings are planned in Kolkata and Bengaluru in the coming weeks. They aim to keep the issue in national focus until, as they put it, “justice is delivered, and truth is revealed.”
For many, the Zubeen Garg justice protest is no longer just about an investigation—it has become a movement celebrating unity, truth, and the enduring power of art to inspire change.
Through their continued activism, these young voices remind the nation that Zubeen Garg’s music and message will live on, transcending boundaries just as their protest now has.
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