In Brief
The Supreme Court addressed whether High Courts were adequately providing video conferencing and hybrid mode hearings to advocates and litigants. The Court found that while some High Courts had facilities, actual usage was abysmal, many imposed arbitrary restrictions (age criteria, prior applications), and most lacked adequate Wi-Fi and internet connectivity in their precincts. The Court held that technology is now a necessity—not an option—for ensuring access to justice. It directed all High Courts and Union tribunals to provide free hybrid and video conferencing hearings without arbitrary restrictions, ensure adequate internet infrastructure within court premises, and adopt a uniform Standard Operating Procedure by specified deadlines. The Union Government was directed to fund these initiatives and ensure adequate bandwidth in under-connected regions.
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