GUWAHATI, Oct. 24: The Kamrup (Metro) district administration has issued a set of guidelines to maintain the sanctity of the cremation ground of legendary singer Zubeen Garg at Sonapur.
Accordingly, the cremation ground shall remain open for visitors to pay homage to the singer from 6 am to 10 pm every day. “No visitors shall be allowed beyond these hours,” the order issued by. Kamrup (Metro) district Sumit Sattawan, read.
“Persons under the influence of alcohol or any other form of intoxication shall not be permitted to enter or remain within the premises of the cremation ground,” the DC stated in the order.
“The consumption, serving or distribution of any kind of intoxicating liquor, is strictly prohibited within the premises as well as in the vicinity of the cremation ground,” he stated.
Sattawan stated that the guidelines would come into force with immediate effect and have been issued for strict compliance after discussion with various stakeholders, including the local population at Hatimura in the Kamarkuchi area of Sonapur.
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while addressing mediapersons after the Cabinet meeting on Thursday evening, had expressed displeasure over reports emerging about “certain self-proclaimed Zubeen fans pouring alcohol as a tribute to the cultural icon at the cremation site”.
“Such acts are deeply disrespectful and contrary to Zubeen’s artistic legacy or identity of being a cultural icon. People visiting the cremation site should offer flowers, not alcohol. So, we will not allow anyone to distort Zubeen’s image by indulging in activities that do not define the legendary singer or his songs,” Sarma said.
Reacting to the district administration’s order, Zubeen Garg’s wife, Garima said the guidelines have been issued by the authorities to maintain discipline and decorum at the cremation ground. “So, we hope people will visit the cremation ground to pay homage and maintain its sacredness,” she said.
