The decision follows complaints from a significant number of AMBA members regarding the alleged behaviour of the Presiding Officer while dealing with advocates conducting cases in the Judicial Magistrate’s court.
TFM Report
In what can be termed as a development that highlights growing tensions between the judiciary and the legal community in Manipur and the need for accountability and mutual respect within the legal ecosystem, All Manipur Bar Association (AMBA) has issued a formal notice announcing its decision to abstain from appearing before the Presiding Officer of the Court of the Learned Judicial Magistrate First Class/Imphal East (JMFC/IE), Civil Judge Junior Division, citing serious allegations of misconduct.
The decision follows complaints from a significant number of AMBA members regarding the alleged behaviour of the Presiding Officer while dealing with advocates conducting cases in her court. An urgent executive committee meeting was convened on January 25, 2025, to address these concerns. “The meeting has taken serious view of the alleged conduct of the said Presiding Officer towards the advocates, which undermines the dignity, integrity, and respect of the Advocates who are Officers of the Court”, stated the notice issued by AMBA.
Allegations of Misconduct
The association has taken grave exception to the alleged conduct of the Presiding Officer, which they claim undermines the dignity, integrity, and respect of advocates, who are considered officers of the court. According to the AMBA, the Presiding Officer has abused her power and jurisdiction, leading to an erosion of the confidence and respect that legal professionals should have for judicial officers.
Resolution Passed by AMBA
In light of these allegations, the executive committee has resolved that, effective February 3, 2025, AMBA members will boycott the Presiding Officer. This includes abstaining from appearing in her court until a positive intervention is made by the higher judicial authority to restore the dignity and integrity of the legal profession.
The AMBA noted that despite timely communication of these concerns, no remedial action has been observed from the higher judicial authorities.
Impact on Litigants
While emphasizing its commitment to justice, AMBA expressed hope that the ongoing boycott would not adversely impact the litigants appearing before the Presiding Officer.
The copies of the notice has been sent to: The Registrar General, High Court of Manipur and the Chief Justice, High Court of Manipur apart from print and electronic media for wider awareness.
The AMBA’s Secretary, Maisnam Johnny Meitei, signed the notice, underscoring the association’s determination to address the alleged misconduct while ensuring that the interests of litigants are safeguarded.