The Tripura Bar Association has demanded the removal of Gautam Sarkar, President of the West Tripura Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, alleging serious misconduct and a loss of public confidence in the consumer forum. The Association has given the state government a three-day deadline to act on its demand.
Delegation Meets Minister, Submits Demand
On Monday, a delegation of the Tripura Bar Association met Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Sushanta Chowdhury and formally submitted a memorandum seeking Sarkar’s removal. The lawyers said the situation at the Consumer Commission had become untenable due to what they described as repeated instances of inappropriate conduct.
The Association also announced a complete boycott of proceedings before Gautam Sarkar. The decision was adopted unanimously during the Association’s General Body meeting held earlier in the day.
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Lawyers Announce Boycott of Proceedings
Senior advocate Pijush Biswas told reporters that the Bar Association had resolved not to appear before Sarkar’s court until the matter was addressed. He said the decision reflected widespread concern among lawyers over the functioning of the Commission.
Biswas alleged that Sarkar’s record as a judicial officer had raised concerns even in the past. He claimed similar complaints had emerged during Sarkar’s earlier postings at Sonamura and Ambassa. According to him, those issues were never properly addressed, allowing the situation to continue.
Three-Day Ultimatum to Government
The Bar Association has warned the government to take action within three days. Biswas said that if authorities failed to respond within the stipulated time, the Association would convene another General Body meeting to decide on further steps.
He added that the lawyers’ body remained united on the issue and would escalate the protest if necessary to protect the credibility of judicial institutions.
Allegations of Misconduct and Intimidation
Advocate Arindam Bhattacharjee alleged that Sarkar’s conduct had affected not only advocates but also officers and staff working at the Consumer Commission. He claimed Sarkar often dismissed objections raised by lawyers by invoking judicial authority, which discouraged fair discussion and transparency.
Bhattacharjee also questioned the process behind Sarkar’s appointment after retirement. He recalled complaints raised during Sarkar’s tenure at Ambassa and said the Association had serious reservations about the criteria used for selecting him for the post.
January 17 Incident Sparks Outrage
Tensions escalated after an incident on January 17, which lawyers described as the tipping point. Members of the Bar Association alleged that Sarkar presided over hearings while under the influence of alcohol.
According to the lawyers, they found Sarkar intoxicated inside his official chamber. They claimed they attempted to inspect his belongings to verify the allegation, but Sarkar resisted and cited medical reasons for his condition. The incident triggered strong reactions within the legal community and led to the immediate call for his removal.
Sarkar Files FIR Against Lawyers
Meanwhile, Gautam Sarkar has lodged a first information report (FIR) at the NCC police station. In his complaint, he alleged that the actions of the Bar Association amounted to an attempt to undermine judicial independence and interfere with the functioning of the Commission.
Police officials said they have received the complaint and are examining the matter. No arrests have been made so far.
Situation Remains Tense
The standoff has created uncertainty around the functioning of the West Tripura Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. With lawyers boycotting proceedings, consumer cases may face delays until the issue is resolved.
The state government has yet to issue an official response to the Bar Association’s demand. Observers say the matter could have wider implications for judicial accountability and administrative oversight in quasi-judicial bodies across Tripura.