A Fast Track Court in Guwahati has ordered the seizure of assets belonging to Siddhartha Sharma, the former manager of Indian singer Zubeen Garg, as part of an ongoing financial investigation connected to allegations arising after the singer’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 the country to participate in the event and did not return alive. In the aftermath of his death, authorities initiated a broader examination into both the circumstances surrounding the incident and associated financial matters.
Following directives issued by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the state government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) in September to probe the case. The investigation subsequently extended to individuals within the singer’s professional circle, including his manager Siddhartha Sharma.
In its latest order, the Guwahati Fast Track Court has directed the seizure of assets linked to Sharma’s proprietorship firm, “Mahabir Aqua”. According to case records cited in court proceedings, investments amounting to approximately ₹1.10 crore were made in the said entity. Investigators have alleged that these funds were derived from the singer’s finances.
The prosecution has further stated that Sharma has not been able to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the origin of his income. He is also reported to have failed to submit key financial documentation, including income tax returns and other supporting records requested during the inquiry.
The court additionally ordered the seizure of six bank accounts associated with Sharma, either held in his name or operated by him. Presiding judge Sharmila Bhuyan noted that materials submitted by the investigating officer indicated irregular financial transactions and the alleged misuse of funds belonging to the deceased singer.
Financial Information Presented Before Court
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Business entity | “Mahabir Aqua” |
| Alleged investment | Approximately ₹1.10 crore |
| Bank accounts under seizure | 6 accounts linked to Siddhartha Sharma |
| Key allegations | Misappropriation, fund diversion, and suspected laundering |
| Financial records | Income tax returns and supporting documents not produced |
Court documents further indicate that a 49-page chargesheet has been submitted, outlining allegations of large-scale financial irregularities, including alleged misappropriation, transfer of funds, and concealment of financial activity.
The court observed that the evidence presented suggested significant discrepancies in the financial dealings under review. It also noted that the pattern of transactions raised questions about the legitimacy of the funds involved, based on the investigative findings submitted so far.
The Special Investigation Team continues to examine financial records and banking transactions as part of the ongoing proceedings. Further legal steps are expected as the case progresses through the judicial system.