CJI Surya Kant Directs High Courts To Strengthen Online Hearing System
Supreme Court says virtual proceedings can help reduce travel costs and fuel consumption
NEW DELHI, May 21: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Thursday said that all High Courts across the country have been requested to conduct proceedings through virtual mode, with most courts already implementing online hearings.
The remarks were made during the hearing of an urgent plea seeking directions for all courts in Delhi to function online for the next three months in view of the prevailing national and international situation.
Responding to the submission made by a lawyer before the Supreme Court, the CJI said the judiciary was already taking steps to encourage digital proceedings wherever possible.
“I have already requested the Chief Justices. Most have already implemented. It has to be a voluntary exercise by both the Bar and the Bench,” Justice Surya Kant observed.
The petitioner sought wider implementation of virtual hearings in district courts as well, arguing that online proceedings would serve national interest by reducing unnecessary travel and expenditure.
The Chief Justice clarified that district courts fall under the administrative control of respective High Courts and decisions regarding their functioning would be taken by them.
“District courts are the domain of High Courts. Let them take a call. I have requested them for district courts also,” he added.
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court had announced that hearings on Mondays and Fridays would be conducted exclusively through video conferencing for the time being. The move was aimed at minimising avoidable expenditure and ensuring efficient fuel usage amid the ongoing West Asia crisis and rising energy concerns.
The judges of the apex court had also unanimously agreed to encourage carpooling arrangements as part of efforts to reduce fuel consumption.
The decision followed an appeal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging institutions and citizens to cut down avoidable expenses in light of global economic pressures caused by tensions in West Asia.
Legal experts believe the growing emphasis on online court hearings may further strengthen India’s digital judicial infrastructure and improve accessibility for litigants across the country.
