Zubeen Garg Drowning: Singapore Inquiry Rules Accidental Death

A coroner's inquiry in Singapore has determined that the September 2025 death of Assam superstar Zubeen Garg was an accidental drowning. State Coroner Adam Nakhoda delivered these findings, stating there was no reason to dispute the Police Coast Guard's investigation conclusions. Assistant Superintendent David Lim testified that Garg had been drinking and declined a life vest before jumping off a yacht, becoming unresponsive as friends attempted to assist him.

Witnesses indicated Garg had no suicidal tendencies and was not coerced. The yacht captain's assistant confirmed Garg was not forced to drink or enter the water, and that safety briefings were provided. Garg, who was in Singapore as a cultural ambassador, lost consciousness while swimming during a yacht outing organized by the Assam Association Singapore.

While the Singapore authorities issued a death certificate citing drowning, Assam police have charged four people with murder, alleging Garg was intoxicated and encouraged to swim. This case is proceeding in a Guwahati court. The Singapore coroner observed that Garg seemed exhausted during his swims and refused a smaller life jacket, ultimately appearing to lose consciousness while swimming back to the yacht.