In a major push toward judicial cost-cutting amid global geopolitical tensions, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has requested the chief justices of all High Courts across the country to shift to online hearings on Mondays and Fridays. The directive is aimed at reducing avoidable expenditure and optimizing fuel consumption in the wake of the ongoing West Asia crisis.
The recommendation follows a decision by the Supreme Court on May 15 to conduct its own proceedings exclusively via video conferencing on Mondays and Fridays—days typically reserved for miscellaneous matters.
A Response to National Cost-Cutting Measures
The judiciary’s shift toward remote operations comes in response to a broader call by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to curb avoidable public expenditure as the West Asia crisis impacts resources.
In addition to transitioning to virtual courts twice a week, Supreme Court judges have “unanimously resolved” to encourage car-pooling arrangements among themselves to ensure maximum fuel efficiency during this period.
Praise from the Bar and Seamless Tech Integration
The transition to virtual courtrooms has already drawn strong support from senior members of the legal community. During a court hearing on Monday, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi commended the Chief Justice of India for the seamless execution of the virtual setup.
“I commend the Chief Justice of India for the online hearings because today, they have gone on smoothly in all the courts,” Rohatgi stated. He noted that the digital format did not hinder the judicial process, adding that “every judge was extra patient” and that the video conferencing proceedings went on “very smoothly.”
Rohatgi also strongly backed the expansion of the initiative, stating, “I also urge that all the high courts follow suit.”
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta echoed these supportive sentiments, telling the court, “I join my learned friend in those submissions.”
Expanding the Initiative Nationwide
Responding to the praise during Monday’s hearing, CJI Surya Kant revealed that steps to expand the virtual model nationwide were already underway.
“On Friday itself, I requested all the chief justices of the high courts to follow the same online hearing mode for the time being, if possible,” the CJI said.
By targeting Mondays and Fridays—which are designated for miscellaneous cases that often involve shorter, preliminary arguments—the judiciary aims to significantly reduce the necessity of physical travel for lawyers, litigants, and staff, thereby conserving fuel and minimizing administrative costs.
