Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has outlined the funeral arrangements for legendary singer Zubeen Garg, whose untimely demise has plunged the state into mourning.
The Chief Minister informed that the ambulance carrying Zubeen’s mortal remains and a small bus carrying his wife, close relatives, and friends will accompany the cortege.
“Except for that, no other vehicle will be part of the entire procession. Just like we brought him home from the airport, this procession will also proceed smoothly,” Sarma assured.
At the cremation ground, pallbearers from the Assam Police will carry Zubeen Garg’s mortal remains from the national highway.
The police will then accord him state honours with a gun salute. Following this, the final rites will be performed by a priest in accordance with the wishes of the family.
The arrangements come as thousands of fans and admirers continue to mourn the passing of the iconic singer, whose contributions to Assamese music and culture remain unparalleled.
The chief minister further announced that no vehicles will be allowed to enter from the Jagiroad side on the day of the funeral, while vehicles heading towards Meghalaya will be permitted. Restrictions will also be enforced from the Jorabat side for at least four to five hours to ensure a smooth and dignified ceremony.
The Assam government has announced September 22 and 23 as dry days across the state to pay tribute to singer and actor Zubeen Garg.
According to an official notification issued by the Excise Department, all liquor outlets—including IMFL and beer retail shops, country spirit shops, wholesale warehouses, bars, clubs, and other licensed establishments—will remain closed on both days. No sale or service of alcohol will be permitted during this period.
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The notification, signed by the Secretary of the Excise Department, has been circulated to all district commissioners, excise officers, autonomous councils, and other relevant authorities for strict enforcement.
Notably, the Meghalaya government has also announced that all wine shops along the route from Jorabat, through which Zubeen’s mortal remains will be brought, will remain closed.