Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged the Indian government to invoke the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) with Singapore following the death of the renowned artist Zubeen Garg. The move aims to secure cooperation from Singaporean authorities and access critical evidence for a comprehensive investigation.
The MLAT enables the exchange of judicial documents, including summonses and warrants, across borders. Under Section 105 of the Indian Criminal Procedure Code, the central government can facilitate legal cooperation with foreign countries, with the Ministry of Home Affairs acting as the nodal authority.
In parallel, Assam has set up a nine-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the circumstances of Garg’s death. The team has begun recording statements and conducting searches, while the singer’s family has lodged a formal complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), calling for a thorough inquiry.
Garg, 52, tragically drowned in Singapore on September 19. While initial reports suggested accidental drowning, his family has expressed concerns, citing a possible seizure during the swim. The invocation of the MLAT is expected to help ensure a transparent and detailed investigation.
