Assam Congress leader and lawyer Reetam Singh has filed an urgent petition before the Gauhati High Court seeking the immediate recusal of Advocate General of Assam, Devajit Lon Saikia, from representing Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in the ₹500 crore defamation case filed against state Congress president Gaurav Gogoi and other party leaders.
The petition, addressed to the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, raises concerns of alleged conflict of interest and questions of impartiality in the high-profile defamation proceedings currently being heard in Guwahati.
Assam Congress leader Reetam Singh has moved the Gauhati High Court seeking the recusal of Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia from representing Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in the ₹500 crore defamation case. The plea cites concerns over conflict of interest and judicial neutrality.
What The Petition Says
According to the filing, the petitioner has argued that the Advocate General’s involvement in politically sensitive matters could create an appearance of bias.
The petition claims:
- Potential conflict of interest in representing the Chief Minister
- Loss of public trust in the justice system
- Concerns over professional ethics and judicial neutrality
The plea also references a 2025 GST evasion case, alleging that Saikia represented a party while holding the office of Advocate General. It further claims that a statement made in court regarding a government “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) was not backed by official records.
These assertions have been cited as grounds for seeking his removal from the defamation case.
Context: The ₹500-Crore Defamation Suit
The defamation case was filed by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma against Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi, following remarks made at a press conference earlier this month.
The suit, currently before a civil court in Guwahati, seeks ₹500 crore in damages.
The Congress petition argues that allowing the state’s top legal officer to represent the Chief Minister in such politically sensitive litigation could give the impression of the state apparatus favouring one side.
Allegations Regarding Public Statements
The petition also refers to statements made by the Advocate General during a press conference on February 12.
It claims that the remarks presented a “materially distorted and prejudicial narrative” and could influence public opinion about the case.
The filing cites Supreme Court rulings that constitutional functionaries should avoid even the appearance of bias or conflict of interest.
Advocate General’s Response
At the time of reporting, Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia has responded to the allegations, stating that he has acted within the framework of the law and professional ethics. Detailed arguments from his side are expected to be presented before the court.
No order has yet been passed by the Gauhati High Court on the recusal request.
Why This Matters In Guwahati
The matter is significant for Guwahati as both the defamation suit and the recusal plea are being heard within the state’s judicial system. The case has drawn attention due to its political sensitivity and the high monetary value involved.
The High Court’s response to the petition could shape the legal trajectory of the ongoing defamation proceedings.
What Happens Next
The Gauhati High Court is expected to examine the recusal plea and determine whether the Advocate General can continue representing the Chief Minister in the case.
Further hearings are awaited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the recusal petition been filed?
The petition alleges conflict of interest and concerns about judicial neutrality in the Advocate General representing the Chief Minister in the defamation case.
What is the value of the defamation suit?
The defamation suit filed by the Chief Minister seeks ₹500 crore in damages.