JNM Journalist Hardeep Jamwal
The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has taken a significant decision regarding court proceedings, keeping in mind the objectives of fuel conservation and the optimal utilization of resources. The High Court administration has announced the implementation of virtual hearings and a hybrid working arrangement within the courts, effective from May 21, 2026. Under this decision, lawyers will now be encouraged to appear before the court via online mediums, while permission to appear in person will remain available for cases involving essential circumstances.
A circular issued by the Registrar General of the High Court states that this measure has been adopted in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation and economic self-reliance. The administration believes that adopting a virtual working methodology will lead to a reduction in fuel consumption and enable a more effective utilization of government resources.
The ‘Vacation Bench,’ scheduled to commence on June 8 during the summer recess, will also conduct hearings exclusively in virtual mode. Furthermore, a decision has been taken to conduct administrative inspections of districts, official meetings, and other government communication programs via online mediums until further orders are issued.
The High Court administration has also imposed a temporary suspension on the Leave Travel Concession (LTC) facility available to judicial officers and court staff. Additionally, all training programs, workshops, and orientation sessions conducted by the Jammu & Kashmir Judicial Academy will henceforth be organized solely through the online mode.
The circular also directs administrative officials to utilize government vehicles on a shared basis in order to curb unnecessary travel and ensure fuel conservation. This decision is being hailed as a significant step towards fostering a digital work culture within the judicial system.
Experts believe that if this arrangement proves successful, the judicial process could become faster, more convenient, and more cost-effective in the future. Meanwhile, several lawyers have welcomed this initiative, noting that online hearings will result in savings of both time and travel expenses.
