Advocate AH Hazarika, accused of molesting an intern, claims full cooperation with police as investigation progresses. He details the incident and his defense.
Shillong, India Aug 3, 2026 ALN: Advocate AH Hazarika, who has been accused of molesting an intern, has stated that he is fully cooperating with the police to ensure a thorough investigation into the matter. The incident has sparked significant public interest and debate regarding workplace safety, particularly in legal and professional environments where power dynamics can complicate issues of consent and harassment.
In a statement released on August 1, Hazarika confirmed that the police have recorded the statements of his juniors who were present during the incident. East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police (SP) Vivek Syiem mentioned that a notice was issued to the advocate under section 35(3) of the BNSS. This legal framework is designed to ensure that investigations into such allegations are conducted fairly and transparently, providing a structured approach to handling sensitive cases.
“Investigation is in progress. We will file a chargesheet within the timeline,” Syiem assured the public. The commitment to a timely investigation is crucial in cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct, as delays can lead to further complications, including the potential for evidence to be lost or witnesses to become unavailable.
Regarding the alleged attack on Hazarika, SP Syiem reported that four members of the HNYF, who were arrested in connection with the incident, are currently in judicial custody for 14 days. This aspect of the case highlights the escalating tensions surrounding the allegations, as groups can sometimes mobilize quickly in response to accusations against individuals, particularly those in positions of authority.
The Statement by Hazarika
In his detailed statement, Hazarika recounted the events of July 28, 2026. He explained that two interns accompanied his junior to attend High Court hearings, but the complainant intern was not present. After concluding their court matters, he returned to his chamber with his juniors around 1:45 PM. At approximately 2 PM, the two interns, along with the complainant, arrived at his chamber to review some files. Hazarika stated that he showed them some Supreme Court rulings while his four juniors were present in the chamber.
“One of my juniors left for home to care for her baby, and another went to the High Court for some work. Two juniors remained in the chamber, and another had been working there since 11 AM. When I stepped out for a brief moment, all my juniors were still in the chamber. Upon my return, I found that all three interns had left, and my junior was working on some tasks,” he elaborated.
Hazarika continued, “As we prepared to leave around 4:30 to 5:00 PM, a group of 10 to 12 individuals forcefully entered my chamber, accompanied by the complainant intern. They accused me of touching the intern, which I denied. I urged them to ask the girl who was near my table, and she confirmed the actual events. One of the individuals recorded the incident on his mobile phone, and I believe that if the police can retrieve that footage, the truth will be revealed, silencing my critics.”
This assertion about the existence of video evidence raises important questions about the role of technology in contemporary allegations of misconduct. In an age where smartphones are ubiquitous, incidents can often be recorded, providing crucial evidence that can either corroborate or refute claims made by individuals involved in disputes.
He further described how, after denying the allegations, he was physically assaulted by one of the youths, who punched him in the mouth and dragged him out of the chamber in a brutal manner to the Sadar Police Station in Shillong. Hazarika informed members of the Bar Association about the incident, and several advocates came to assist him at the police station. He was subsequently taken to the Civil Hospital in Shillong for medical examinations and treatment.
After being released on July 29, 2026, Hazarika sought further medical attention at NEIGRIHMS, where X-rays and tests were conducted due to the severe injuries he sustained. The physical altercation adds another layer of complexity to the case, as it introduces elements of violence that can overshadow the initial allegations of sexual misconduct.
“I am fully cooperating with the police to complete the investigation,” he concluded. This statement reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability, which is essential for restoring trust in the legal profession and ensuring that justice is served.
The implications of this case extend beyond the individuals directly involved. It raises broader questions about the safety of interns and young professionals in legal settings, where power imbalances can sometimes lead to exploitative situations. The legal community is often viewed as a bastion of ethics and integrity, and incidents like this can tarnish that image, leading to calls for more stringent regulations and oversight.
Moreover, the case has the potential to influence public perception of sexual harassment laws and their enforcement in India. As awareness of such issues grows, so too does the demand for effective measures to protect individuals from harassment and to hold perpetrators accountable. Advocates for reform argue that workplaces, including law firms and judicial environments, must adopt clearer policies and training programs to prevent harassment and ensure that victims feel safe coming forward.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for both the legal community and society at large to engage in discussions about the cultural and systemic factors that contribute to harassment and violence. By examining these issues openly, stakeholders can work towards creating safer environments for all individuals, particularly those who are vulnerable or in junior positions.
The ongoing investigation will likely continue to attract attention as more information becomes available. As the police work to gather evidence and interview witnesses, the outcomes of this case may set important precedents for how similar allegations are handled in the future.
As the situation unfolds, it remains essential for all parties involved to approach the matter with a commitment to justice and a dedication to uncovering the truth, ensuring that the rights and dignity of all individuals are respected in the process.
Thanking You.
Mr. AH Hazarika
Dated: Shillong
August 1, 2026
Yours etc.
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