Seven witnesses testified at the Singapore Coroner’s Court regarding the death of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg during the second hearing. They asserted that Garg did not appear to be under the influence of alcohol when he arrived at Capo Bay Marina on September 19, 2025, the day of the drowning. Six witnesses who were aboard the yacht with Garg offered similar accounts about the events leading up to his entry into the water, although there were variations in the details of his alcohol consumption. One witness remarked that Garg “did not appear intoxicated” and was only taking small sips of a drink. In contrast, another witness mentioned that a whisky order had been placed, but it was unclear if Garg consumed any of it, while only one witness suggested that he seemed tipsy.
Video footage shown in court depicted Garg entering the sea for the first time wearing a life jacket, which some witnesses noted seemed excessively large. They also indicated that he subsequently removed the jacket while in the water. After swimming, Garg returned to a kayak near the yacht and was described as looking tired by several witnesses. A witness who organized the excursion testified about attempting to persuade Garg to wear a life jacket before his second swim, but Garg declined, reportedly stating, “I have never worn it before. I don’t like it.” Witness accounts indicated that Garg then swam quickly towards the shore, encouraging others to follow and mentioning that he had taught two members of the group how to swim.
The inquiry remains ongoing with more evidence anticipated. Notably, these witness testimonies contradict earlier statements from investigators. The Singapore Police had previously reported toxicology analysis revealing that Garg’s blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit at the time of his water entry. During the first hearing on January 14, police testimony suggested that Garg was heavily intoxicated and not wearing a life jacket when he drowned, with Assistant Superintendent of Police David Lim stating that Garg had consumed alcohol and rejected wearing a life vest.
Additionally, Garg’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, visited Peerless Hospital on the date that coincided with their wedding anniversary. Medical personnel reported she was not ill but attended for a routine check-up after feeling slightly weak. Hospital officials noted she is experiencing emotional strain following her significant personal loss. The Coroner’s Court is expected to announce its findings on February 13.