By: The Trek News Desk
In a significant development, Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) of Assam, has stepped down from his post, citing “moral grounds” in connection with the ongoing investigation into the death of popular singer Zubeen Garg. Mahanta’s brother, Shyamkanu Mahanta, is among those arrested in connection with Zubeen’s tragic demise.
Background of the Case:
Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, a former Director General of Police (DGP), was appointed as the CIC in 2023, shortly after he retired from the Assam Police service. His resignation follows the controversy surrounding his younger brother, Shyamkanu Mahanta, the organiser of the controversial North East India Festival held in Singapore, an event that Zubeen Garg had attended as the cultural brand ambassador just before his untimely death.
On September 19, 2025, Zubeen Garg was found dead on a yacht in Singapore, a day before the festival. The circumstances surrounding his death have raised numerous questions, with suspicions of foul play. Shyamkanu Mahanta, who is the director of a prominent event management company, is accused of criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, and causing death by negligence, with murder charges added later.
Bhaskar Mahanta’s Resignation:
In a statement to the media, Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta confirmed that he had submitted his resignation letter to the Raj Bhawan. He explained that the decision was made to preserve the integrity of the office of Chief Information Commissioner and to avoid any doubts regarding his impartiality.
The CIC is tasked with ensuring the implementation of the Right to Information (RTI) Act in the state, and the investigation into Shyamkanu’s activities has attracted several RTI applications. Mahanta, upon learning of these RTI requests, decided to resign to prevent any questions being raised about his position. He further clarified that he had informally discussed the matter with the highest office of the state and received their consent.
“I had conveyed earlier that if such a situation arose, I would resign, and the CMO had responded affirmatively. I believe it is crucial to maintain the dignity of my office and democratic traditions, and not let any doubts be cast on my integrity,” Mahanta said.
Shyamkanu Mahanta’s Involvement:
Shyamkanu Mahanta, a prominent figure with extensive connections in both the political and cultural spheres, has been under scrutiny following Zubeen’s death. He was arrested last month and is currently in custody in Baksa Jail. The Mahanta family holds significant influence in Assam, with another brother, Nani Gopal Mahanta, serving as the Vice-Chancellor of Gauhati University and former Education Advisor to the state government.
Shyamkanu’s event management company has organised several high-profile festivals across cities such as Delhi, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Singapore, in collaboration with Indian embassies. These events have received support from the Assam government, including the annual Rongali festival in Guwahati.
Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta’s resignation highlights the growing scrutiny of his family’s involvement in the events surrounding Zubeen Garg’s tragic death. As the investigation continues, the Mahanta family’s connections and their roles in the high-profile cultural festivals will likely remain under the spotlight.
Zubeen’s death has shaken Assam, and the ongoing investigation is expected to uncover more details about the circumstances leading up to the singer’s untimely demise.
Source: News Agencies
