SHILLONG: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has defended Advocate General Amit Kumar amid mounting calls from the legal fraternity for his removal, citing the complexities and risks involved in replacing a key legal official.
Sangma acknowledged the concerns raised by lawyers but emphasized that departments like Law, Finance, Home, and the Chief Minister’s Secretariat are foundational to governance, and abrupt changes in such posts can disrupt daily operations and ongoing legal cases.
Sangma explained that while the Advocate General is ultimately replaceable, any decision to do so must be carefully considered and planned to avoid creating a vacuum in the state’s legal and administrative structure.
He clarified that Amit Kumar has only appeared in court for cases where his expertise is indispensable, particularly those affecting the interests of farmers, miners, and teachers, and has otherwise recused himself.
Responding to allegations of personal bias, Sangma admitted to a long-standing acquaintance with Kumar but insisted that the Advocate General’s appointment is based on professional merit and results, not personal ties.
He encouraged critics to consult former senior officials to verify Kumar’s effectiveness and reaffirmed his willingness to facilitate further dialogue with the Bar Association to address grievances and improve the working environment.
(4FrontMedia news)
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