The Supreme Court has permitted lawyers and litigants to opt for video conferencing amid Delhi's air quality plunging into the severe category, prioritizing health over physical attendance. Issued on December 14 under CJI Surya Kant's directions, this advisory encourages hybrid mode usage to sustain judicial proceedings without risking exposure to hazardous pollution. A timely response as AQI breaches critical thresholds, triggering health alarms across the NCR.
Delhi-NCR grapples with worsening air pollution, with AQI levels hitting severe marks due to stagnant weather and emissions. The Supreme Court registry circulated an advisory on December 14, advising advocates and parties-in-person to leverage video conferencing facilities where convenient. This follows CJI Surya Kant's personal concerns—he felt unwell after a morning walk in late November—and echoes prior judicial nudges, like Justice P.S. Narasimha's November 13 warning on pollution's permanent health damage. The court already operates in hybrid mode, balancing efficiency and safety.
Key Highlights
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Circular Details: Dated December 14, it urges hybrid appearances "in view of prevailing weather conditions" for listed matters.
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CJI's Role: Directions from Chief Justice Surya Kant; advisory shared with Supreme Court Bar Association and Advocates-on-Record Association.
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AQI Context: Delhi records 'severe' levels (300+), invoking GRAP Stage IV restrictions like construction bans.
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Precedents: Builds on November suggestions for virtual shifts to protect lawyers, especially seniors.
Sources: India Today, Moneycontrol, The New Indian Express, The Tribune India