Physical hearing to begin Aug 29 in subordinate courts

At present, all courts are only taking up urgent matters virtually such as hearing of bail petitions to ensure that fundamental rights of those in custody are not infringed upon.

The Patna high court on Thursday announced to resume physical hearing in all subordinate courts across the state from August 29 in strict compliance with Covid-19 Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). At present, all courts are only taking up urgent matters virtually such as hearing of bail petitions to ensure that fundamental rights of those in custody are not infringed upon.

Patna high court (HT File)

“The HC directs you to open courts in physical mode to the extent it is possible, along with virtual mode. This hybrid mode be implemented on experimental basis, in consultation with the inspecting judge of your judgeship,” a notification issued by the HC Registrar General, Navneet Kumar Pandey, read.

The move, which would facilitate disposal of cases in the state’s 1,400 subordinate courts, comes after several bar bodies and lawyers were demanding to resume physical hearing immediately. A meeting was held on Wednesday of bar leaders, office bearers of the high court and senior advocates in this regard.

The order clarified that guidelines or health advisories issued by the Government of India and respective state governments from time to time shall be strictly followed while resuming physical hearing of the cases.