Gauhati High Court relocation: Lawyers stage indefinite sit-in protest

Guwahati: Opposition to the proposed relocation of the Gauhati High Court to Amingaon intensified on Tuesday. A section of advocates under the Lawyers’ Association, Guwahati, began an indefinite sit-in protest at the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court premises.

The protest targets the state government’s plan to shift the High Court from its current location in Guwahati to Rangmahal in Amingaon, North Guwahati. Lawyers said the move would cause serious inconvenience to advocates, litigants, court staff, and the public. They warned it could affect access to justice.

Protesters also questioned the decision-making process, alleging a lack of transparency and consultation with key stakeholders. The association says the existing High Court complex is deeply integrated into the city’s legal, administrative, and public framework. Moving it without proper planning and infrastructure, they said, would disrupt the justice delivery system.

Advocate Pradip Konwar, president of the association, told reporters the agitation also opposes the proposed demolition of the existing court building.

“The present court building is set to be demolished, and that is why we are protesting. We were told we will be temporarily shifted, but no clear decision has been communicated on where we will be relocated. Adequate land, 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 deciding to demolish it,” Konwar said.

Protesters demanded that any temporary or permanent relocation must include sufficient infrastructure. They called for chambers, courtrooms, and support facilities to accommodate the large number of lawyers and legal staff.

They reiterated their demand that the Gauhati High Court continue to function from its current location. Also, urged the government to hold meaningful consultations with all stakeholders before proceeding with demolition or relocation.

The lawyers also alleged that despite the protest continuing for several days, their concerns have not been addressed. They said this left them with no option but to intensify the agitation.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced days ago that authorities will hold the bhumi pujan for the proposed new High Court complex at Amingaon on January 11.