The High Court of Kerala has decided to revert to virtual mode of hearing owing to massive spike in Covid cases in the State.
However, cases for trial or any other particular class of cases may be heard through physical mode, if the Judicial Officer concerned finds that it is absolutely unavoidable. This shall also be consistent with the general directions of the respective Principal District Judge.
The High Court has issued a revised advisory for functioning of courts in District Judiciary, considering the recent upsurge in Covid -19 cases in the State.
The revised advisories issued by the court are as follows:
- A restricted cause list of cases for a week shall be published on the previous Friday and a copy shall be furnished to the Bar Association. Priority should be given to old cases and cases wherein time bound disposal is prescribed by higher courts. Restricted cause list for 18.01.2022 to 22.01.2022 shall be published on 17.01.2022.
- If it is decided to proceed with the trial of any case through physical mode, the number of witness shall be limited considerably. Examination of witnesses through VC can be done wherever possible, following the guidelines contained in OM No. 10/2020(SS), dated 18- 4-2020 and relevant rules.
- Presence of parties shall be insisted only if it is unavoidable. The party voluntarily coming to court will be allowed entry only if he/she carries a letter issued by his counsel stating that his/her presence in court on that day is very essential.
- Entry to Advocate clerks inside the court hall during the time of sitting will be allowed only in unavoidable situations.
- The District Judges shall regularly evaluate the Covid -19 situation in the District and make necessary changes in the sitting arrangements accordingly, consistent with the directions of the High Court.
- The directions issued by the Government and the district administration from time to time shall be followed scrupulously.
The situation will be reviewed by the High Court on 11.02.2022.
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