COVID-19 Restrictions : Rules cannot be relaxed for Journalists, says CJI

On Monday, CJI S A Bobde said that rules for preventing overcrowding in the Courts to avoid the spread of coronavirus can't be relaxed for journalists alone on the basis of profession.

"Can't make an exception on the basis of profession," Chief Justice said while asking journalists to share information & notes & suggesting that a system can be put in place to facilitate daily media briefing by Secretary-General.

Justice Bobde said that video conferencing facility being contemplated may be brought into place but not sooner than one week from now & reporters may take turns to attend hearings.

He said that the Court doesn't wish to prevent any reportage.

Attorney General KK Venugopal & Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed CJI about the crowded corridors on account of restricted entry inside courtrooms.

Chief Justice Bobde said that he himself wishes to assess & take stock of the situation & may do so tomorrow at 10.30 am.

This comes after the SC introduced several precautionary measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus and allowed only restricted entry of Advocates, litigants, and journalists in the Courtroom.

Thermal-screening of the Advocates, litigants, & media persons were also conducted in the Apex Court on Monday amid coronavirus fears.

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