The Assam government has formally requested the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to implement the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) with Singapore. This step has been taken to ensure justice in the case related to the sudden demise of renowned singer and Assamese cultural icon Zubeen Garg. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on the microblogging platform, “The Assam government has sent a formal request to the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure full cooperation from Singapore, obtain information on the case, and bring the accused back to India to ensure justice.”
What cooperation will be provided under MLAT?
Under the provisions of MLAT, local authorities in Singapore will be obligated to share information on the case with the Indian investigation team, assist in the investigation, and cooperate with legal proceedings. This includes the extradition of accused persons, if required. Officials believe that implementing this treaty will significantly strengthen the ongoing investigation and ensure transparency in the case.
A special team from Assam will travel to Singapore.
Following the implementation of the MLAT, the Assam government will send a special team to Singapore. This team’s purpose will be to coordinate with local authorities, examine the evidence in the case, and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice using all legal avenues. Officials say this move will expedite and effectively investigate Zubeen Garg’s sudden demise.
Growing Public Demand and Commitment to Justice
Zubeen Garg’s passing has left millions of fans in grief not only in Assam but across Northeast India. He contributed not only to singing but also to composing music, acting, and social work. Chief Minister Sarma had previously assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure justice and the highest level of cooperation between India and Singapore. This move, amid growing public demand, will prove crucial to a transparent and rigorous investigation of the case.
