The Delhi High Court on Friday directed that all judicial proceedings at the Patiala House and Rouse Avenue district court complexes be conducted exclusively through virtual mode on Saturday in view of the anticipated protests in the national capital.
The administrative order, issued under the signature of the High Court's registrar general, also directed courts across Delhi not to pass adverse orders against litigants, advocates, witnesses or accused persons unable to appear for scheduled hearings.
"The proceedings and hearing of all cases, including civil and criminal at New Delhi District Courts, that is, at Patiala House Court Complex and at Rouse Avenue Court Complex shall be done virtually only," the notification stated.
Virtual hearings mandated
The order clarified that judicial officers posted at the Patiala House and Rouse Avenue court complexes who are unable to reach their respective courts may conduct proceedings virtually.
The arrangement will apply to both civil and criminal matters listed for hearing on Saturday, ensuring that judicial work can continue despite possible restrictions on movement and disruptions to public transport.
The High Court also issued instructions covering all district courts in Delhi, directing that no adverse orders be passed solely because of the absence of litigants, lawyers, witnesses or accused persons.
In urgent matters where a hearing cannot proceed because of non-appearance, the courts have been advised to adjourn proceedings to an early date.
Undertrials to appear virtually
The notification further directed that undertrial prisoners be produced before district courts exclusively through virtual mode on Saturday.
The measure is intended to avoid the movement of prisoners between correctional facilities and court complexes during the anticipated security restrictions.
The directions are expected to provide relief to litigants and legal professionals who may face difficulties reaching court premises because of traffic diversions, heightened security checks and restrictions on public transportation.
Order ahead of CJP protest
The administrative order comes ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) proposed demonstration at Jantar Mantar on October 10, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Delhi Police have announced extensive security arrangements in anticipation of the gathering, including restrictions on movement and public transport services in parts of the capital.
The High Court's directions are aimed at ensuring continuity of judicial proceedings while preventing litigants and other participants from facing procedural disadvantages because of circumstances beyond their control.
The order applies to Saturday's proceedings and does not indicate any broader suspension of judicial functioning in the capital.