HT Digital
GUWAHATI, Mar 29: In a significant development, Advocate General of Assam, Devajit Saikia, has resigned from the Bar Association, citing a conflict of interest regarding the state government’s policy on the relocation of the Gauhati High Court.
His decision comes amid rising tensions between the legal fraternity and the government over the controversial move.
Saikia submitted his resignation to Kamal Nayan Choudhury, President of the Bar Association, emphasizing the difficulties of managing his dual roles. In his resignation letter, he pointed out that, as Advocate General, he is obligated to uphold government policies, including the contentious plan to shift the High Court. However, his membership in the Bar Association, which opposes the move, created an ethical dilemma.
“In my capacity as Advocate General, I am bound to uphold the government’s policy on the relocation of the High Court. Under such circumstances, it would be difficult for me to remain a member of the Bar Association while the association holds a contrary position,” Saikia explained in his letter.
With over 30 years of legal experience, Saikia has served as the Advocate General of Assam since 2021. His resignation underscores the growing divide between legal professionals and the state government over the proposed relocation, an issue that has sparked intense debate within the legal community.
This decision sheds light on the challenges faced by legal representatives who must balance their professional commitments with government policies. Saikia’s resignation signals the deepening complexities within the legal and political landscape surrounding the future of the Gauhati High Court.