Guwahati: Protests by lawyers against the proposed relocation of the Gauhati High Court gathered momentum on Tuesday, with a section of advocates launching an indefinite sit-in at the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court premises in Guwahati.
The agitation, led by members of the Lawyers’ Association, Guwahati, is directed against the state government’s plan to shift the High Court from its present location in the city to Rangmahal in Amingaon, North Guwahati. Protesters argued that the move would cause significant inconvenience to advocates, litigants, court staff and the general public, potentially affecting access to justice.
The lawyers also raised concerns over what they described as a lack of transparency and consultation in the decision-making process.
They maintained that the existing High Court complex is closely integrated with Guwahati’s legal, administrative and public infrastructure, and warned that relocating it without adequate planning and facilities would disrupt the justice delivery system.
Lawyers’ Association president Pradip Konwar said the agitation also stems from opposition to the proposed demolition of the current court building. He claimed that advocates were informed of a temporary shift but were not given any clarity on the alternative location.
“The present court building is set to be demolished, and that is why we are protesting. We were told that we would be temporarily shifted, but no clear decision has been communicated about where we will be relocated. Adequate land, chambers, rooms and space must be provided for all lawyers, computer assistants and staff. The court stands on government-allotted land, and no notice was issued before taking a decision to demolish it,” Konwar said.
The protesters demanded that any temporary or permanent relocation of the High Court must ensure sufficient infrastructure, including courtrooms, chambers and other support facilities, to accommodate the large number of legal professionals and staff.
Reiterating their stand, the lawyers urged the government to allow the Gauhati High Court to continue functioning from its current location and called for meaningful consultations with all stakeholders before proceeding with any demolition or relocation.
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They also alleged that their concerns have remained unaddressed despite days of protest, leaving them with no option but to intensify the agitation.
