NEW DELHI, Nov 26: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Wednesday said he is considering shifting Supreme Court hearings to a virtual only mode as the national capital continues to reel under hazardous air pollution. The CJI revealed that he felt unwell during a one hour morning walk a day earlier, underscoring the severity of the pollution’s impact.
Justice Kant said a final decision would be taken after consulting members of the Bar, even as a suggestion was floated in court to allow virtual hearings for lawyers above 60 years of age.
His remarks came at the beginning of a hearing on petitions challenging the Election Commission’s decision to conduct a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal and several other states. Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the poll panel, sought exemption from physical appearance, prompting the CJI’s observation on air quality and health concerns.