Allahabad HC To Conduct Both Physical & Virtual Hearings From Monday, July 27 [Read Order]

The decision comes days after the High Court decided to hold hearings through Video Conference only, with effect from July 22.

"From 27^th of July 2020, there shall be physical hearing of matters as well as hearing through Video Conferencing. Physical as well as e-filing of matters shall also be permitted from 27^th of July 2020, onwards.

The detailed modalities for functioning of the Courts shall be notified under a separate notification," an administrative order issued by Chief Justice Govind Mathur on July 23 states.

This is in supersession of order dated July 19 where the decision to halt physical functioning was taken in view of gravity of the situation created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is noteworthy that on July 22, the Hony. Secretary as well as the President of the High Court Bar Association had addressed separate letters to the Chief Justice, highlighting the plight of Advocates due to "chaotic" VC facility and "impractical" system of e-filing.

They had pointed out that the "VC Cubicles" set up by the High Court to enable those Advocates to appear before the High Court who do not have internet access or other technological infrastructure, was disorderly.

Presently, the High Court has arranged 29 VC Cubicles. Those, who wish to avail the option of VC facility, may place a request at the following link: http://www.allahabadhighcourt.in/apps/status/index.php/vcrequest

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