In response to the worsening air quality in Delhi, the Supreme Court of India has advised all courts in the region to consider shifting to online hearings to protect the health of lawyers, litigants, and judges. The suggestion comes as Delhi continues to grapple with severe air pollution levels, which have raised concerns about public safety.
Background:
Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated in recent weeks, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels. This has prompted various authorities to take emergency measures, including limiting outdoor activities and implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The Supreme Court’s advisory aims to minimize exposure to toxic air, especially for those who must travel to courtrooms during such conditions.
Court’s Rationale:
The Supreme Court highlighted the increasing health risks associated with the toxic air and noted that shifting to online hearings would ensure the smooth functioning of the judicial process without compromising public health. The court also emphasized the importance of adopting measures that could safeguard the well-being of all involved in legal proceedings.
Existing Measures:
Several courts in Delhi have already adopted online hearings in the past, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This suggestion by the Supreme Court to make online hearings a temporary norm comes as part of the ongoing efforts to adapt to the city’s environmental challenges.
Conclusion:
By advising a shift to online hearings, the Supreme Court has taken a proactive approach to protect public health during the ongoing air pollution crisis in Delhi. This step reflects the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that legal processes continue without compromising the safety of those involved.