COVID-19, AAB Writes To CJI To Close Down Karnataka HC For Two Weeks [Read Letter]

The letter signed by the President of the Association, A P Ranganatha and Secretary A N Gangadharaiah says "Covid-19 has been declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organisation. The honourable high court of Karnataka has issued a circular taking various steps and issuing advisories to lawyers and litigants. We have no doubt with the good intent of the Honourable Chief Justice, High Court of Karnataka, in issuing the circular. However, the intent and object of the circular has failed in implementation."

The letter also reads that the court continues to work at full strength and the cause list and final hearing matters. The lawyers are bound to attend court when the cause list is issued and the court is hearing all the matters like a regular court day.

It is mentioned that "Your lordship (CJI) has ensured that the honourable supreme court functions with minimal number of cases and judges. The lawyers are unable to understand why this model can't be adopted in Karnataka as well. It is as though we are waiting for something untoward to occur before taking action."

As per data mentioned in the letter there is a footfall of around 30,000 everyday in city civil court and 5,000 in High Court, can close down full for two weeks or in the alternate list only urgent matters and close the courts by 12.30 pm, everyday. "Sir, the entire planet gripped with fear and no one not even the best in the medical field are sure of what lies ahead. Precautionary measures, to prevent or restrict the spread is the need of the hour,", the letter reads.

The Karnataka High Court to avoid spread of the Coronavirus has restricted entry of litigants and public in the high court and other district court premises, until further orders.