WFH, Virtual Hearings And Car Pooling: SC After PM Modi’s Fuel Saving Appeal

In line with the Centre’s recent push to conserve fuel and reduce unnecessary travel, the Supreme Court of India has announced a series of measures including work-from-home arrangements, virtual hearings and car pooling for judges.

According to a circular issued by the apex court, the steps have been taken with immediate effect in view of the Centre’s Office Memorandum dated May 12.

Video Conferencing On Monday, Friday

As per the new directions, hearings in fresh matters listed on Mondays, Fridays and any other specially notified days will be conducted entirely through video conferencing.

The circular further stated that all proceedings before vacation benches during the Supreme Court’s summer break will also take place virtually.

“Matters listed on miscellaneous days (i.e. on Mondays, Fridays, or such other days as declared to be miscellaneous), and matters listed during the Court’s partial working days, shall be heard by video-conferencing only. The Registry shall ensure that links for the video-conferencing are sent in a timely manner, maintain stable video-conferencing facilities and extend timely technical assistance so as to avoid any inconvenience to the Hon’ble Court,” the Memo read.

To ensure optimum utilization of fuel, the Hon’ble Judges of the Supreme Court have unanimously resolved to encourage car-pooling arrangements amongst themselves.

Additionally, up to 50% of Registry staff in each branch or section may work from home for up to two days a week on a rotational basis, subject to uninterrupted functioning of the Court. Concerned Registrars have been given discretion to modify or restrict the work-from-home arrangement depending on the essential nature of work in a particular branch or section.

The measures come amid a broader nationwide appeal to reduce fuel consumption and adopt energy-saving practices in view of the prevailing global energy concerns.