SHILLONG: Legal practitioners across Meghalaya, led by the Shillong Bar Association and the High Court of Meghalaya Bar Association, have resolved to continue their indefinite court boycott after failed talks with the state government and judicial leadership regarding the removal of Advocate General Amit Kumar.
Bar Secretary T.L. Jyrwa explained that the decision follows a series of protests, including meetings with the Governor and unsuccessful dialogues with the Chief Justice and Law Minister Lahkmen Rymbui.
The Chief Justice advised the lawyers against boycotting proceedings, citing Supreme Court rulings, but the legal fraternity said they were driven to extreme measures by the government’s persistent inaction.
The bar associations’ main demand is the removal of Advocate General Amit Kumar, alleging misuse of office in the appointment of outside counsel and disrespect toward local bar associations.
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The Law Minister stated that only the State Cabinet can decide on the Advocate General’s removal and claimed he was unaware of the detailed representation submitted by the lawyers.
The bar criticized the government for not placing their concerns before the Cabinet and for failing to address procedural irregularities.
The boycott, which began after no official invitation for talks was extended by the Chief Minister, will remain in force until the government responds meaningfully.
The bar leadership acknowledged the inconvenience to the public but stressed the need for urgent systemic reforms to protect local legal professionals and public funds.
The legal community will review the situation and decide on further action in a meeting scheduled for September 3 if their demands remain unaddressed.
(4FrontMedia news)
