RAJADITHYA SADASIVAN Vs. HIGH COURT OF KARNATAKA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The petitioner is a member of the Bar who has standing of 14 years. From 24th March 2020, when total lockdown was declared, the functioning of the Courts across the nation was adversely affected and therefore, within the limitation created by pandemic of COVID-19, attempts were made to find out workable solutions so that the limited functioning of the Courts can continue. From 1st June 2020, a limited functioning (including physical hearing) of all the Courts in the State of Karnataka including the High Court was commenced. The limited functioning of the Courts was governed by the Standard Operating Procedures (for short 'SOPs') issued for High Court as well as the District Courts which were amended from time to time.

(2.) As we are dealing with a very extraordinary situation created by the spread of pandemic of Covid-19, it is impossible to find a perfect solution which will be liked by all the stakeholders for running the Courts.

(3.) At this stage, we may make useful reference to the order of the Apex Court dated 6th April 2020 in Suo Motu Writ (Civil) No.5/2020 (In Re: guidelines for Court functioning through video conferencing during Covid-19 pandemic). Paragraphs 4 and 5 of the said order are material which read thus: