Zubeen Garg Case: Assam AG Says Govt Giving Top Priority to Fast-Track Hearings

GUWAHATI: The Assam government is treating the Zubeen Garg case as a top priority, with Advocate General Devajit Saikia personally monitoring proceedings at the fast-track court set up by the Gauhati High Court to expedite the matter.

Saikia addressed the media today after hearings in the case entered their third consecutive day, with arguments continuing on the critical point of discharge. 

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Advocate General Saikia was present at the fast-track court alongside Director of Prosecution Makhan Phukan — an indication of the weight the state government is placing on the case.

The special public prosecutors' team, led by Ziaul Kamar, is conducting the state's arguments. Saikia vouched for the team's competence.

"They are very competent. They are doing their job efficiently," he said. "The PP team is noting down every argument of the defence advocates. When they finish, we'll give our response. If necessary, I will also speak in the court on the matter."

Saikia was direct when asked about the charge sheet filed by the Assam government.

"We have given a strong charge sheet. The hearings have started. When the discharge hearing is complete, we'll know how strong our charge sheet is," he said.

He also clarified that the ongoing hearing is focused squarely on one central question — whether the incident constitutes murder or not.

Addressing questions about a related case in Singapore, Saikia was categorical that the two proceedings are entirely separate.

"There is no connection between this case and the Singapore case. The cause of action there is different than it is here. So, the order delivered in the case there will have no influence here," he stated.

On questions relating to the de-freezing of accused Shyamkanu's bank accounts and Siddharth's alleged connection with Mahavir Aqua, Saikia said these were unrelated to the current court proceedings.

"That is an entirely different issue. The present case is not related to commercial activities," he clarified, reiterating that the fast-track court hearings are focused solely on the discharge point in the criminal case.