The High Court of Madhya Pradesh has ordered an extension of previous circulars dated 25thMarch and 14th April issued keeping in view the spread of COVID-19. The directions will be in operation till 3rd May to the extent that it relates to High Court’s Principal Bench at Jabalpur and the Gwalior Bench. The Circular has also given instructions regarding video conferencing and E-filing guidelines that are to be followed for hearing urgent matters.
Prohibition of entry: The entry to High Court will remain prohibited, and the administrative and judicial work will be communicated through the Registrar General and Principal Registrar. The entry to subordinate courts will also remain prohibited. The judicial officers and all staff members of all the courts will remain stationed at their places of posting.
Only urgent matters to be allowed: Only matters which are urgent or eminently emergent will be entertained on permission by the respective Judges. The lawyers will be notified the venue and mode of addressing the Court either through vide conferencing or otherwise.
Staff members to have active mode of communication: All registry officers and other staff members will keep their mobile phones and contact numbers in active mode for receiving and executing any communications issued by their superiors for discharge of their duties.
Adherence to this Circular unless further Orders issued: The High Court and the Subordinate courts will function according to these guidelines, unless further orders are issued and decisions are taken by the Chief Justice.
Directions by Central and State Government to be followed: The directions and guidelines issued by the Central and State Government from time to time will be followed by the Courts. The guidelines issued by Department of Justice and Ministry of Home Affairs should be referred to.
No deviation from directions allowed: Any disobedience and deviation by any person will be taken very seriously.
Virtual hearing: The Principal Registrar after examining the matter will place the matter before approval of Chief Justice, who if satisfied with the grounds and nature of urgency of the matter, direct the matter to be registered. Once registered, the advocates will be notified through message or email about the details of the date and time slot for the hearing of the matter through virtual court.
-India Legal Bureau