GUWAHATI, July 11: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday warned that painting portraits of late singer Zubeen Garg in public places without permission will not be allowed.

Speaking during the Assam Budget 2026–27 press conference, the Chief Minister said members of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) would face arrest if they repeat such acts.

What Happened at Ganeshguri

The Chief Minister was referring to a mural of Zubeen Garg painted at the Ganeshguri flyover. Sarma dismissed claims that the government had removed it.

He said two painters told the police that they removed the portrait themselves because “it did not look like Zubeen.” Both the painters and the contractor are fans of the singer and are Assamese, he added.

CM Says

“There is no restriction on painting Zubeen Garg’s portrait. But it has to be officially approved. If a portrait is approved, then anyone can paint it,” the Chief Minister said.

He also said he would prefer renowned artist Neel Pawan Barua to paint an official portrait of Zubeen Garg.

The Chief Minister alleged that SFI members painted the Ganeshguri mural. He said the same group had earlier opposed the construction of flyovers and tree cutting and are now seeking “free publicity.”

He said Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) have been instructed to arrest SFI members if they paint Zubeen Garg’s mural again without permission.

Sarma also questioned why Che Guevara is painted in Assam.

“Why not Paresh Barua or Aparag Das instead?” he said, urging people to honour local icons.

On the Delay

The Chief Minister said action was delayed due to the Japanese Prime Minister’s visit.