Delhi High Court Directs Videoconferencing Of All Proceedings At District Courts

Written by:

Adv Tanvi Malik

Updated: 06-03-2024

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The Delhi High Court, presided over by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan, has given district courts all around the nation's capital extensive instructions to streamline video conferencing (VC) processes to improve the effectiveness and transparency of judicial proceedings. The objective of these directives is to tackle and rectify any operational glitches that may hinder the smooth execution of virtual court proceedings, thereby guaranteeing uniformity and accessibility in the judicial process.

Important Guidelines for video conferencing

To guarantee the seamless operation of video conferencing facilities all district courts must adhere to the comprehensive structure outlined in the directives released on May 20, 2024. The following are the salient points from the ruling of the High Court:

Ongoing Operations throughout Court Hours: Throughout court hours, the video conferencing technology must be kept turned on. This guarantees uninterrupted connectivity, allowing all stakeholders to have access at all times.
Court's End Video Activation: During proceedings, the court's end video feed needs to be activated at all times. The goal of this strategy is to preserve openness while enabling participants to see the inside of the courtroom.
Audio Controls: Unless specifically instructed by the court, the audio at the court's end shouldn't be muted. This clause takes its cue from an office directive that was issued on June 5, 2023, and stresses how crucial it is to keep lines of communication open during virtual hearings.
Free Entry to Video Conference: The public, litigants, and advocates must all be able to easily attend the court's video conference sessions. As such, they must stay open. To ensure inclusion and participation in the legal process, exceptions are only allowed under explicit directions from the court.
Display of Item Numbers: The item number of each case that is being heard during video conference hearings must be displayed by each court. This makes it easier for participants to stay on top of the schedule and proceedings and guarantees that they are aware of the status of their case.
Status Messaging Outside of Sessions: Visible messaging on the video conference screen should convey the court's current status, including whether it is retired, not in session, on leave, or subject to certain restrictions. Informing participants about the court's availability and controlling expectations are the goals of this transparency.
Putting into Practice and Reporting: The Principal District & Sessions Judges are directed to produce frequent reports on the performance and status of video conferencing systems to monitor and enforce strict compliance with these guidelines. To allow for oversight and to facilitate any necessary modifications or enhancements, these reports must be sent to the Delhi High Court's Registrar General in the manner specified.

Importance of the Instructions

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically expedited the trend towards virtual hearings, which is why the Delhi High Court is taking proactive steps to improve video conferencing standards. This change has highlighted the requirement for a strong and dependable virtual court infrastructure to guarantee the availability, effectiveness, and continuity of justice.

Improving Accessibility and Involvement: The open access rule for participating in video conferences guarantees that all pertinent parties, including the public, can take part in or watch court proceedings. More openness and confidence in the legal system are cultivated as a result.
Preserving Continuity and Efficiency: The court makes sure that proceedings don't get interrupted by accident by requiring constant operation and prohibiting illegal muting. Sustaining the hearings' momentum and preventing needless delays depends on this continuity.
Improving Clarity and Communication: Case item numbers and status information are displayed to keep everyone informed and to minimize confusion. Additionally, it facilitates the efficient scheduling and handling of cases—especially in a virtual setting without tangible cues.
Preserving Judicial Openness and Accountability: The guidelines demonstrate a dedication to preserving accountability and transparency in the legal system. The court improves the openness of its operations by maintaining live video streams and guaranteeing effective communication.

A major step towards modernizing the legal system and maintaining its accessibility and transparency is the Delhi High Court's extensive rules for video conferencing in district courts. The court is laying the foundation for a more effective and inclusive legal system by addressing real-world concerns and establishing unambiguous norms. These directions, if they are carried out, will probably become models for other courts that want to use technology to properly administer justice.

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