NT Reporter
Panaji
The All India Lawyers’ Association, Goa branch, has condemned Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s alleged remarks that advocates exploit litigants by delaying cases and has demanded an apology, saying the statement unfairly targeted the legal fraternity.
In a statement, the association said that delays in legal proceedings are primarily caused by administrative shortcomings, including vacant judicial posts, the frequent absence of Deputy Collectors and Mamlatdars, and connectivity issues, rather than by advocates.
The association was reacting to the Chief Minister’s recent appeal to the public not to approach advocates for every small matter. Sawant had also allegedly said that a few advocates prolong disputes for their personal gain.
The association, however, maintained that the Chief Minister’s remarks amounted to a sweeping generalisation. Adv Leona Barreto rejected suggestions that Sawant had referred only to a few individuals and not the entire legal community.
She contended that the Chief Minister had made a generalised statement using the word “all” advocates instead of identifying a specific group.
The association urged the Chief Minister to exercise greater caution in his public statements in the future.
The association also criticised the government’s handling of major issues, alleging that its usual response has been silence.
It stated that, having served as Chief Minister
for several years, Sawant should know how to communicate responsibly on matters concerning the legal profession.
