Physical Court Hearings To Resume In Subordinate Courts In Chhattisgarh From July 19

The High Court of Chhattisgarh notified the commencement of normal functioning of the Subordinate Courts in the State from July 19, 2021, through physical mode and video-conferencing, where available and desirable. Furthermore, an order by the Registrar General of the High Court notified all that the number of cases to be taken up by each case will be decided to avoid congestion in courtrooms. The order has also emphasized adherence to COVID-19 protocols in the courtrooms like social distancing, wearing of masks, sanitization, standing in circles with a minimum distance of 2 yards.

The order mandates following all COVID-19 related guidelines issued by the Supreme Court, Hugh Court, Central Government, State Government, and Local Authority. In this regard, it reads,

"Masking of face and social distancing will have to be strictly followed. Any violation therein may result in denial of entry in future and any punitive legal action as may be prescribed."

The order also mentions that if the Court premises fall within a declared Containment Zone or there is a complete lockdown in pursuance of the directions of the District Magistrate, then the Courts will function bare minimal with minimum support staff deputed on a rotational basis dealing only with extremely urgent cases. The cases to be taken up based on their urgency is to be decided by the presiding judge under intimation to the High Court. The note further reads,

"There will not be any regular listing of the cases during the aforesaid periods, however, as regards cases of utmost importance/urgency, the presiding judge shall decide as to whether urgency exists or not and to take action as per convenience."

It also notes that remands and bails of the arrested person shall be done as per 'holiday practice.' It is also clarified that all officers and staff of the Courts shall "work from home" and make themselves available as and when their services are required by the District & Sessions Judge.

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