The Gauhati High Court Bar Association today opposed the Assam government’s proposal to relocate the Gauhati High Court to Rangmahal in North Guwahati, alleging that the decision was taken without any consultation with lawyers or the Bar Association.
Addressing a press conference in Guwahati, senior members of the association said the move reflected a complete disregard for democratic processes. They stated that neither individual lawyers nor the Bar Association were informed or consulted before the relocation plan was announced.
The association also distanced itself from statements made by Devajit Lon Saikia, who has publicly supported the relocation. Bar leaders said Saikia is not a member of the association and accused him of speaking on behalf of the Assam government rather than from a legal standpoint. 
Rejecting the government’s claim that the Advocate General had invited the Bar for discussions, the association said no such invitations were ever received. “We were never called for any meeting. We were only told after decisions had already been taken,” members said.
On the issue of space constraints at the present High Court complex, the Bar Association said there is scope to add three more floors to the existing structure. They added that lawyers had suggested several practical alternatives to solve space and infrastructure problems without shifting the court.
The association also highlighted the historical and heritage importance of the current High Court building, calling it a landmark structure with cultural value. Questioning the government’s logic, they pointed out that multi-storey buildings are being constructed near the present complex if the area is truly unsuitable.
Responding to claims that lawyers had unanimously supported the relocation, the association dismissed the argument as misleading. They said public advertisements issued by the government contained false and exaggerated claims.
General Secretary Apurba Sharma said the lawyers have no political motive and are acting purely in public interest. “We want development, but it must come through discussion, not force,” he said, adding that if concerns are addressed logically, the Bar is open to dialogue.
Parking-related arguments were also brushed aside, with members saying such problems exist in every major city, including Kolkata, and cannot be the sole reason for relocation.
The Bar Association reiterated that it remains open to talks and urged the government to reconsider its approach in the interest of transparency, dialogue and democratic values.
