COVID-19: Calcutta High Court Permits Hybrid Hearings, Court Hours Restored To Original Timings

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday released a notification permitting proceedings to be conducted through hybrid mode which allows physical appearances of lawyers as well as through virtual mode.

"Upon consideration of the recommendations of the Hon'ble Covid Committee of this Hon'ble Court, the Hon'ble the Chief Justice has been pleased to direct that the Court proceedings can be conducted through hybrid mode permitting physical appearances of lawyers as well as through virtual mode", the notification reads. 

 It has been further directed that Advocates who appear for physical hearing shall wear masks, maintain physical distancing and follow the health and hygiene protocols.

It was further stated that from February 14, Court hours shall be restored to the original timings - from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

"The staff strength in the High Court shall be increased to 100% of the total strength with effect from 02nd February, 2022" the notification stated further. 

It may be noted that last month, the High Court had issued a notification stating that in view of the threat of the imminent third wave of the Covid pandemic and also the alarming rise in the number of Covid affected cases, the High Court would function through virtual mode only with effect from January 3, 2022. 

Furthermore, seven Virtual Court Kiosks (VC Kiosks) have also been set up inside the High Court premises in order to enable counsels to participate in virtual hearings as an urgent measure. 

Click Here To Read/Download Notification