The Fast Track Court in Guwahati has ordered the seizure of assets linked to Siddhartha Sharma, the manager of Indian singer Zubeen Garg, in connection with a financial investigation arising after the artist’s death in Singapore last year.
Zubeen Garg died on 19 September last year in Singapore while attending the North-East Festival. He had travelled to participate in the event but did not return. Following his death, questions and allegations emerged regarding the circumstances surrounding both the incident and the handling of his finances.
In September, acting on the instructions of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the state government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the case. Among those investigated were individuals close to the singer, including his manager Siddhartha Sharma.
The court has directed the confiscation of assets belonging to Sharma’s proprietorship firm, “Mahabir Aqua”. According to the prosecution, approximately ₹1.10 crore was invested in this entity. Investigators have alleged that funds belonging to the late singer were diverted and utilised for such investments.
Authorities further stated that Sharma has been unable to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the source of his income. He reportedly failed to produce relevant financial documentation, including income tax returns and other supporting records.
The investigation has also identified six bank accounts associated with Sharma, which the court has ordered to be seized. Presiding judge Sharmila Bhuyan observed that documents submitted by the investigating officer indicated irregular financial activity, including alleged misuse of the singer’s funds.
According to the findings presented in court, there are indications of large-scale misappropriation, transfer of funds, and possible money laundering activities. The court noted inconsistencies in Sharma’s financial disclosures and stated that his income sources appeared unsubstantiated based on the material submitted.
Financial Details Presented in Court
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Alleged investment | ₹1.10 crore in “Mahabir Aqua” |
| Bank accounts under scrutiny | 6 accounts linked to Siddhartha Sharma |
| Key allegation | Misappropriation and diversion of singer’s funds |
| Financial documents | Income tax returns and supporting records not produced |
The chargesheet submitted in the case runs to 49 pages, according to court records. It outlines allegations of financial irregularities and the alleged unauthorised use of funds associated with Zubeen Garg.
The investigation remains ongoing under the Special Investigation Team, with further legal proceedings expected as authorities continue to examine financial transactions and related documentation.