Barely a month after the death of Assam’s beloved singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg, a new controversy has erupted in Boko, sparking anger among fans and citizens. Banners featuring Zubeen Garg’s photograph alongside that of BJP State ST Morcha vice-president Raju Mech have surfaced in the Boko-Soygaon area, leading to widespread criticism from the public and local organisations.
The late singer, who was deeply loved across Assam, had often urged his fans through his songs and public messages to stay away from politics. One of his famous lines, “Politics nokoriba bondhu” (“Don’t indulge in politics, my friend”), is now being recalled by people as they express disappointment over the political use of his image.
According to local residents, several banners showing Raju Mech with Zubeen Garg’s image were recently displayed in Boko and surrounding villages under the 27 No. Boko-Chaygaon Assembly constituency. Mech is reportedly preparing to contest the 2026 Assam Assembly elections from this seat. 
People in the area have condemned the act, calling it a “cheap attempt to gain political mileage” by using the image of a departed artist who still holds a special place in Assam’s heart. “Zubeen Garg belonged to everyone. He was not a political figure. Using his picture for campaign purposes is disrespectful,” said a resident of Boko town.
The controversy has quickly spread beyond Boko, drawing reactions from across the state. On social media platforms, fans of Zubeen have voiced strong disapproval, urging all political parties to stop dragging the singer’s name into election-related activities.
Former president of the All Rabha Students’ Union (ARSU), Ramen Singh Rabha, expressed his deep resentment over the issue. “At a time when people across Assam are still mourning and seeking justice for Zubeen Garg’s untimely death, Raju Mech has started using his photo for political gain. This is not only insensitive but also condemnable,” Rabha said.
He further questioned the ruling BJP’s approach, noting that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier accused the Opposition of politicising Zubeen Garg’s death. “If that is the case, then what should we call this move by a BJP functionary? The double standards are clear,” he added.
Rabha alleged that through such acts, Raju Mech has effectively begun the BJP’s campaign in the Boko-Soygaon area using Zubeen’s popularity as an emotional tool. “People loved Zubeen Garg for his art and music, not for politics. Using his name for votes is shameful,” he said.
