Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Resigns from Bar Body Over HC Relocation

Amid the ongoing row over relocating the Gauhati High Court, Assam Chief Minister and lawyer Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday resigned from the Gauhati High Court Bar Association following the Association's opposition to the proposed move to Rangmahal, North Guwahati.

According to his resignation letter addressed to the President of the Gauhati High Court Bar Association, the CM stated that the decision to resign from the bar body was not just to avoid any 'conflict of interest' but also in the larger interest of judicial reform, institutional growth, and the future of the legal system.

"The Government of Assam, despite severe financial and other constraints, and, with an anticipated expenditure of more than 21000 crore, has accepted this recommendation of the Full Court," he wrote.

Noting that the decision to relocate was driven by compelling practical reasons, he added that the present High Court has no scope for expansion. He also noted that the present facilities for litigants are grossly inadequate.

Emphasising the proposed increase in judge strength from 22 to 30, CM said that the existing premises cannot accommodate the required space. The current building, he added, lacks key infrastructure such as a modern library, an auditorium, designated chambers for lawyers, and other essential amenities.

Reflecting on his own experience as a practising advocate in the Gauhati High Court, the CM went on to highlight the immense challenges faced by lawyers on a day-to-day basis. He said that the present infrastructure of the High Court has failed to meet the modern-day needs.

He further stated that the new location was not selected by him but by a High Powered Committee comprising two sitting judges and other members, in consultation with the Chief Justice.

Concluding his letter, the CM said he found himself in a morally difficult position, as the stand taken by the Gauhati High Court Bar Association conflicted with that of the Hon’ble High Court and the Government of Assam.