Assam Chief Information Commissioner Resigns Amid Controversy Over Brother's Arrest

Resignation Following Family Controversy

On Thursday, Bhaskarjyoti Mahanta, the Chief Information Commissioner of Assam, stepped down from his position. This decision comes over a month after his brother, Shyamkanu Mahanta, was detained in connection with the death of renowned singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore, as reported by a local news outlet.

His resignation followed discussions with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, according to the same report.

The resignation was prompted by a Right to Information (RTI) request that sought details regarding government funds allocated to Shyamkanu Mahanta, who is implicated in the case.

Zubeen Garg, a celebrated Assamese artist, tragically passed away on September 19 while on a yacht trip in Singapore, just a day before he was set to perform at the North East India Festival.

This festival was organized with the backing of the Indian government and the Indian high commission in Singapore, along with support from local associations.

A death certificate issued by authorities in Singapore on September 20 indicated that Zubeen Garg's death was due to drowning.

In connection with the incident, seven individuals have been arrested, including Shyamkanu Mahanta, who was responsible for organizing the festival, along with Zubeen Garg's manager, Siddharatha Sharma, and two musicians who were present with him on the yacht.

Additionally, Zubeen Garg's cousin, Deputy Superintendent of Police Sandipan Garg, and two of the singer's personal security officers have also been taken into custody.

In his resignation letter, Bhaskarjyoti Mahanta, a former Indian Police Service officer and ex-director general of Assam Police, expressed that it would be inappropriate for him to remain in his role given the media attention surrounding his brother's involvement in the case.

He stated, “My conscience told me that if any RTI application were filed concerning my brother, it might give rise to doubts or misinterpretations.”

Mahanta mentioned that he had already communicated his decision to the chief minister’s office and instructed his colleagues to notify him of any new RTI requests related to his brother.

“Those who know me have no doubt that even if I were in charge, that person would have received completely accurate information,” he added. “However, to eliminate any potential doubts in the public's mind, I chose to resign from my responsibilities.”