Lawyers, staff protests against West Tripura consumer court president over alleged misconduct

After a massive chaotic scene, tension prevailed at the West Tripura District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission on Saturday as practicing advocates and office staff staged a protest demanding the removal of Commission President Gautam Sarkar over allegations of misconduct and harassment.

The protesters accused Sarkar of moral turpitude, workplace harassment, and regularly appearing before the commission under the influence of alcohol. Several female employees alleged that Sarkar consumed liquor inside his official chamber, which they said was a clear violation of service rules.

Members of the local Bar Association claimed that liquor bottles were frequently found in Sarkar’s possession and that the smell of alcohol was often noticeable during hearings. A female advocate has reportedly lodged a formal complaint accusing Sarkar of using abusive language and physically assaulting her. Lawyers alleged that no action has been taken on the complaint so far.

Office staff also raised similar allegations, accusing the president of verbal abuse and intimidation, which they said had severely disrupted the functioning of the commission.

In response to the incident, the Bar Association announced a boycott of court proceedings until Sarkar is removed from his post. During the protest on Saturday afternoon, advocates and staff entered Sarkar’s office and demanded that his carry bag be checked in the presence of media personnel. Sarkar, however, refused, stating that the move was intended to publicly humiliate him.

Denying all allegations, Sarkar described the charges as “false and motivated.” He claimed that he was being subjected to collective harassment and cited his medical condition, stating that he had previously undergone bypass surgery as well as cancer surgery on his neck.

“I am fully aware of the rules and regulations. I am not an insane person to consume alcohol inside my office,” Sarkar said.

Meanwhile, no official statement has been issued by the state government or the concerned authorities regarding the allegations or the demand for Sarkar’s removal till the filing of this report.