Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma dismisses protests and allegations, says relocation of Gauhati High Court to North Guwahati is part of long-term urban and judicial planning
Guwahati: Amid protests and political debate over the proposed relocation of the Gauhati High Court to Rangmahal in North Guwahati, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, while addressing the media in an event on Saturday, stated that the move is aimed solely at decongesting the city and improving judicial infrastructure, and not driven by politics.
Addressing the media, CM Sarma described the ongoing sit-in by the Gauhati High Court Bar Association as based on “misunderstandings and misplaced fears.” He rejected claims that the relocation would impose a heavy financial burden on lawyers and litigants, calling such concerns exaggerated.
“There is no justification for saying that people will have to spend Rs 400 to Rs 500 just to reach the court,” the Chief Minister said. He added that concerns over distance and accessibility would soon be addressed with improved connectivity.
CM Sarma pointed out that the Guwahati–North Guwahati bridge, expected to be inaugurated in February, would significantly reduce travel time. Once operational, he said, reaching the proposed High Court complex would take only a few minutes.
Placing the relocation in a broader development context, the Chief Minister said North Guwahati is being developed as a future-ready urban centre. He reiterated the government’s commitment to long-term infrastructure expansion, including plans for a metro rail corridor along the city’s ring road in the coming years.
Responding to criticism, CM Sarma said the government views the relocation as a progressive step to reduce pressure on Guwahati and create a more organised judicial environment. He also clarified that the decision was not taken unilaterally by the state government.
“This is not my personal decision. The judges themselves have taken this call,” he said, dismissing allegations of political interference.
The Chief Minister further said a dedicated “Judicial City” would be developed at Rangmahal, with an initial investment of Rs 500 crore and subsequent phases amounting to Rs 1,200 crore. The project will include modern court buildings and related facilities.
CM Sarma requested all stakeholders to see the relocation as part of Assam’s long-term vision for planned urban growth and judicial reform, rather than a cause for concern.
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