Gauhati Bar Association Rejects Court Relocation Plan
The Gauhati High Court Bar Association (GHCBA) made a strong statement on Monday. They explained their opposition to moving the court 30 kilometers away to North Guwahati. The association insists this stand serves the public interest. It does not come from any personal or hidden motives.
Foundation Stone Ceremony Faces Boycott
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant laid the foundation stone on Sunday. The new integrated judicial court complex in Rangmahal, North Guwahati, will cost Rs 1,705 crore. Bar association members boycotted this ceremony. They have opposed the relocation since 2023.
Members criticized the state government's decision. They said it lacked proper consultation. There was no transparency or democratic dialogue. The Bar accused the government of keeping lawyers uninformed while pushing the plan forward.
Bar Association Counters Government Arguments
Bar members denied receiving any invitation for discussions from the advocate general. They stated clearly, "No such invitation was ever extended."
The government cited space constraints as a reason for the move. The Bar countered this argument effectively. They said three additional floors could be built at the existing Panbazar complex. Lawyers had suggested multiple alternative solutions.
Members emphasized the heritage value of the current building. They called it a temple-like structure. They questioned the logic of relocation when 10-storey buildings are coming up nearby.
Rejecting Claims of Unanimous Support
The association rejected claims of unanimous support for the relocation. They pointed out, "Did the government get 100% votes to form power? It barely got 37%. Such arguments are misleading."
Bar members downplayed the foundation stone laying ceremony. They noted, "Assam has hundreds of abandoned foundation stones. This could be one more." They questioned how construction and protests could proceed at the same time.
Addressing Practical Concerns
The government mentioned parking issues as another reason for relocation. The Bar dismissed this concern. They claimed such problems are common in all major cities, including Kolkata.
The association said it's misleading to call their protest "unnecessary." They alleged that false narratives were being spread about their stance.
Bar's Position and Willingness for Dialogue
General secretary Apurba Sharma clarified the lawyers' position. He said lawyers have no political agenda. "We were informed only after decisions were taken and expected to accept them. We are deeply hurt by this one-sided approach," he explained.
Sharma added a constructive note. "If concerns are addressed logically, we are willing to go to Rangmahal with a smile. We want development, but not through unilateral decision," he stated.
The Bar Association maintains its firm opposition to the relocation plan. They continue to demand proper consultation and transparent decision-making processes from the government.
