Assam CID Intensifies Probe: Event Manager Tied to Zubeen Garg's Death Now Accused of Rs 55 Lakh Financial Fraud

Assam's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has initiated a fresh, rigorous probe against prominent event manager Rakesh Sharma, a figure who previously found himself embroiled in controversy surrounding the demise of Assam's beloved cultural icon, Zubeen Garg. This new investigation shifts focus from personal tragedy to alleged financial malfeasance, with accusations surfacing regarding the misuse of public funds.

Sharma, known for his close association with Zubeen Garg and his company 'Zubeen Garg and Friends', is now under intense scrutiny for alleged financial irregularities amounting to a staggering Rs 55 lakh.

The Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Assam government, filed an First Information Report (FIR) against him, asserting that Sharma misused funds allocated for 'Zubeen Garg's All Assam Tour' event, which was organized back in 2021. The allegations suggest a significant breach of trust and a potential large-scale misappropriation of government resources meant for cultural promotion.

The CID has officially registered a case under sections 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating), and 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of the Indian Penal Code, indicating the serious nature of the charges.

Investigators are now meticulously sifting through financial records and are expected to summon Rakesh Sharma for questioning in the coming days as they piece together the full extent of the alleged fraud.

This is not the first time Rakesh Sharma has been at the centre of a CID investigation. In a more somber context, he was previously accused in connection with the tragic death of singer Zubeen Garg.

A case was registered in 2023 based on a complaint alleging that Sharma supplied liquor and other intoxicants to Garg, which, according to the complaint, led to a severe deterioration of the singer's health. While the exact circumstances of Garg's passing were widely attributed to his lifestyle and health issues, Sharma's proximity and alleged involvement in providing substances placed him under a cloud of suspicion.

The re-emergence of Rakesh Sharma in the headlines, this time for alleged financial crimes, highlights a pattern of controversy surrounding the event manager.

His career, deeply intertwined with the vibrant cultural scene of Assam and the iconic legacy of Zubeen Garg, now faces a fresh wave of legal challenges that could significantly impact his standing and future endeavours. The CID's thorough investigation is anticipated to shed more light on these serious allegations, ensuring accountability and justice for the misuse of public funds.