SHILLONG: Advocate General of Meghalaya, Amit Kumar, addressed the media at Shillong Press Club on Thursday to clarify his recent statements before the High Court and respond to allegations of abuse of office and external legal appointments.
The controversy stemmed from remarks made in connection with a sexual assault case involving a senior Bar member and subsequent protests by the state’s legal fraternity.
Kumar clarified that his comments in court were not aimed at the High Court of Meghalaya Bar Association or the Shillong Bar Association, but were contextual and related to prior allegations against the accused.
He expressed regret if his words caused offense and emphasized his openness to dialogue, noting his long-standing association with the local Bar.
Addressing allegations of favoritism and misuse of office, Kumar revealed that he leads a team of 11 qualified local lawyers and that neither his family members nor team have billed the government for services rendered.
He said his family’s legal work is personally funded and that all government payments to him follow the prescribed 2018 fee notification.
Kumar welcomed scrutiny, stating he is open to an inquiry into his office’s finances. He also highlighted his contributions to major public interest cases, including indigenous rights and state infrastructure, and explained that engaging outside counsel is sometimes necessary for complex matters.
He urged senior Bar members to join the government panel to strengthen legal representation for the state and reiterated his commitment to transparency and public interest.
Kumar also welcomed the government’s decision to review complaints against him over the next two weeks but decried what he called an unfair “trial” by social media.
(4FrontMedia news)
