Supreme Court Allows Physical Appearances Amid Virtual Sessions

The Supreme Court has allowed advocates, unable to attend virtual court sessions on Mondays and Fridays, to appear physically. This decision follows a Supreme Court Bar Association representation citing difficulties faced by lawyers, despite an earlier push for virtual participation and car-pooling among judges to save costs.

The Supreme Court of India clarified on Monday that advocates who encounter difficulties with video conferencing on Mondays and Fridays are permitted to appear physically in court. This development follows feedback from the Supreme Court Bar Association about the challenges lawyers face in embracing digital court sessions.

Initially, the court mandated virtual hearings on specific days, aligning with broader national interests to reduce expenditure amid a crisis in West Asia. The court emphasized the importance of online participation but recognized instances where physical appearances are necessary.

The court also highlighted an initiative encouraging judges to use car-pooling to optimize fuel consumption, responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for reducing avoidable expenses. This shift aims to balance modern conveniences with traditional practices.