Supreme Court Directs Assam Government to Respond to Zubeen Garg's Bail Plea
The Supreme Court of India on Monday sought a response from the Assam government on a bail plea filed by popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg in connection with an alleged case. The matter is scheduled for further hearing in the coming weeks.
Zubeen Garg, a renowned playback singer and composer, was arrested earlier this year following an FIR lodged against him. The details of the case have not been publicly disclosed in full, but reports indicate it pertains to alleged remarks made during a public event. Garg has denied any wrongdoing and has been seeking regular bail.
A bench comprising Justices [names not disclosed in original] issued notice to the state government, asking it to file its reply within two weeks. The court was hearing a special leave petition filed by Garg challenging an order of the Gauhati High Court, which had denied him bail.
Senior advocates representing Garg argued that the singer has been in custody for over three months and that the case against him is baseless. They emphasised that Garg has deep roots in the community and is not a flight risk. The Assam government's counsel sought time to file a formal response, which the court granted.
The case has drawn significant attention in Assam, where Zubeen Garg enjoys a massive fan following. His supporters have held peaceful protests demanding his release. Legal experts say the Supreme Court's intervention could set a precedent for free speech cases in the state.
The next hearing is expected in late March 2025.
