Delhi Air Pollution: CJI Advises Lawyers to Use Hybrid Hearings
Due to severe air pollution and adverse weather conditions in Delhi, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant has advised lawyers and parties appearing in person to use the hybrid mode of hearings wherever possible. This allows participants to join court proceedings through video conferencing instead of physical appearance.
Following the CJI’s advice, the Supreme Court Registry has issued a circular stating that parties may opt for virtual hearings based on their convenience. The Registry has also requested lawyers and litigants to properly use the hybrid or virtual hearing facility while following all technical and procedural rules required for online appearances.
The circular has been shared with the Supreme Court Bar Association, the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association, and other concerned authorities for necessary action and information.
The advisory comes at a time when air quality in the Delhi-NCR region has reached dangerous levels. Reports suggest that the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 450 in some areas after thick smog covered the city over the weekend.
Earlier, CJI Justice Surya Kant had openly expressed concern over Delhi’s air pollution crisis. During a recent hearing, he mentioned that he had stopped his morning walks due to poor air quality. After senior members of the Bar raised concerns and requested virtual hearings, the CJI indicated that the matter would be considered, which has now resulted in this advisory.
The circular is here.
