The Supreme Court of India made a historic shift to virtual hearings on March 23, 2020, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. This transition was implemented to continue judicial work while minimizing the risk of spreading the virus and managing the rising caseload without overcrowding the court’s premises. Judges conducted hearings from their residences, and lawyers participated from their home offices, all connected via videoconferencing technology. The court’s registry provided digital links to these hearings, making it easy for lawyers to access proceedings from their laptops or mobile phones.
This digital transformation allowed the court to streamline its operations, resulting in considerable time and cost savings. It also helped increase access for litigants located in remote areas, as well as for those with disabilities, offering them the opportunity to participate in hearings they might otherwise have been unable to attend.
By June 15, 2020, the Supreme Court had successfully processed over 5,000 cases through virtual hearings, showcasing the effectiveness of this new mode of functioning. In addition to facilitating court hearings, the Supreme Court responded to the pandemic’s effects on the criminal justice system. Concerned about overcrowding in prisons and juvenile homes, the Court issued directions for the release of undertrials and convicts on parole or bail, as well as their rehabilitation. This measure was intended to help alleviate congestion in detention facilities and ensure the health and safety of incarcerated individuals during the pandemic, which posed a severe threat to vulnerable populations.
This virtual hearing initiative was part of broader efforts to modernize India’s judicial system, and it served as an innovative solution to the challenges posed by the pandemic. It also highlighted the need for continued reforms in the judicial process, ensuring that it remains accessible, efficient, and responsive even in times of crisis.
