The Supreme Court of India has allowed work from home facility for its staff. The court has issued a new circular announcing several important measures related to court functioning, staff work arrangements, and fuel saving.
The decision has been taken after the appeal by PM Modi to save fuel amidst ongoing war crisis between Israel and Iran.
Cases on Miscellaneous Days to be Heard Through Video Conferencing
The Supreme Court said that all matters listed on miscellaneous days, such as Mondays and Fridays, or any other day declared as miscellaneous, will be heard only through video conferencing.
The Court also clarified that cases listed during partial working days will also be heard virtually. The Registry has been directed to send video conferencing links on time and ensure stable technical facilities so that court proceedings continue smoothly without inconvenience to judges or lawyers.
Supreme Court Judges Encouraged to Use Car Pooling
To reduce fuel consumption, the judges of the Supreme Court have unanimously decided to encourage car-pooling arrangements among themselves. This step has been taken to ensure better utilization of fuel resources.
Work From Home Allowed for Staff
The circular further states that up to 50% of staff in each branch or section of the Supreme Court Registry can work from home for up to two days every week until further orders.
However, the remaining staff must stay available in office so that court work is not affected. The concerned Registrar has been directed to prepare a weekly roster before the beginning of every week.
The Supreme Court has clearly stated that staff members working from home must remain available on telephone at all times. They should also be ready to come to office immediately if required.
Officials have also been instructed to ensure timely completion of all assigned work and responsibilities.
Registrar Can Modify Work From Home Arrangements
The circular also gives power to the concerned Registrar to restrict or modify the work-from-home arrangement if it is found ineffective for any branch or section due to the essential nature of the work.
This means that any person is not working properly from home, then he/she may be called back to office.
