Meghalaya Bar Associations Take Action Against Advocate General
The Meghalaya High Court Bar Association and the Shillong Bar Association have taken decisive action by expelling Advocate General Amit Kumar from their rolls. They have also urged the state government to dismiss him from his position as the state’s chief legal officer.
Resolution Following Extraordinary Meeting
During an extraordinary general body meeting held on August 5, which saw the attendance of over 400 legal professionals, both associations passed a resolution. It stated, “Resolved that the name of Shri Amit Kumar be and is hereby removed from the roll of advocates of both the High Court of Meghalaya Bar Association and the Shillong Bar Association and he shall no longer be a member of the said Associations, and it [is] hereby resolved that all members of both the bar associations henceforth do not recognize Shri Amit Kumar as Advocate General for the State of Meghalaya.”
Allegations and Court Proceedings
The controversy surrounding Advocate General Kumar arose during a suo motu case initiated by the Meghalaya High Court. The case involved the physical assault and public parading of a lawyer accused of molesting an intern in Shillong. The High Court bar association and the Shillong Bar Association had previously petitioned Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere, highlighting state authorities’ inaction.
During a July 31 hearing, Chief Justice Dere and Justice W Diengdoh observed that the police had seemingly failed to act despite being present at the incident. On August 3, Kumar informed the court that four members of the Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF) were arrested.
Controversial Statements by Kumar
Further controversy erupted when Kumar allegedly criticized the bar associations for not safeguarding women lawyers. This statement was made in connection to the sexual harassment allegations concerning the intern. Sources indicate that Kumar’s remarks, which suggested multiple incidents of such nature in Meghalaya, were not well-received by the bar associations.
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The bar associations initially requested an explanation from Kumar regarding his comments. However, his response reportedly exacerbated the situation, culminating in his expulsion from the associations.
Bar Associations Affirm Commitment to Women’s Safety
During the August 3 court session, bar representatives reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of women advocates and young interns in the state. In response, the court included the State Bar Council and the Bar Council of India as respondents in the ongoing suo motu case.
Next Steps and Anticipated Developments
The court has scheduled the next hearing for August 19. In the meantime, the bar associations await a response from the state government regarding their demand for the removal of Advocate General Amit Kumar.
