Assam: Shyamkanu Mahanta Releases Video Defense Amid Zubeen Garg Probe
In the video, he describes facing threats and public vilification, claiming that media “TRP allegations” have amplified unverified claims against him.
GUWAHATI- Amid intensifying scrutiny from Assam Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) and CID in connection with Zubeen Garg’s death in Singapore, Assamese entrepreneur and NEIF organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta posted a video statement on his official Facebook page (@shyamkmahanta) earlier today.
The 8.27 minute clip, uploaded around midday local time shortly after the raid on his residence, sees Mahanta defending himself against allegations of negligence during the singer’s fatal yacht outing at Lazarus Island.
In the video, he describes facing threats and public vilification, claiming that media “TRP allegations” have amplified unverified claims against him. Mahanta emphasized that Garg willingly participated as NEIF’s brand ambassador and was staying at a high-end hotel during the festival, asserting that inviting him “cannot be a fault.”
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Reports note the video lacked overt remorse, instead portraying Mahanta and his company, MMS Advisory, as cultural promoters unfairly targeted. He urged calm and criticized detractors for exploiting the tragedy for ratings.
The video follows Thursday morning’s SIT-CID raid, where investigators seized multiple laptops, hard drives, mobile phones, and documents from Mahanta’s residence.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has criticized Mahanta publicly, citing his prior anti-BJP social media activity, and barred him and affiliated organisations from state-sponsored events.
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Reactions to the video have been mixed. Supporters view it as a plea for fairness, while critics, including mourning fans of Garg, consider it evasive amid ongoing investigations under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for conspiracy and culpable homicide.
This video marks Mahanta’s first public statement in several days, contrasting with prior content focused solely on NEIF promotions or cultural events. The SIT is continuing its investigation, including questioning remaining yacht participants and associates of NEIF.
