Shillong, Oct 7: Terming the government as “anti-local” and accusing it of promoting dynasty even in the field of law, the Voice of the People Party (VPP) on Wednesday demanded immediate removal of Advocate General Amit Kumar and extended solidarity to Bar Associations boycotting courts.
VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit said remarks by the AG questioning the Bar’s ability to protect its women members in a case involving a woman intern were “highly insensitive and unacceptable.”
He accused the government of betraying its assurance to the legal fraternity, alleging that despite assurances from the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister that the AG would no longer appear for the government, he continues to appear in court.
Questioning why Meghalaya should be represented by an “outsider” when senior competent local advocates are available, VPP said spending crores on outside lawyers shows the government does not understand local sentiments.
It also alleged irregular appointment of the AG’s close relatives to the state panel and wasteful expenditure of public money, demanding an independent inquiry.
Blaming the government’s “adamant and arrogant attitude” for the court boycott since October 1, VPP said common people seeking justice are suffering and demanded appointment of a qualified senior local advocate as next AG.
