Physical hearings at District Courts from October 19

Ramkrishan Upadhyay

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, October 16

After a gap of over six months, physical hearings will restart in the District Courts, Sector 43, from October 19 with all Covid-related precautions. The order in this regard was issued by the District and Sessions’ Judge today.

Physical hearings will be allowed in the cases wherein the advocates of both parties give consent for physical appearance. Physical hearing will be allowed in criminal trials where accused are in custody, matrimonial cases, compromise matters, MACT cases, litigations under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act and others.

A joint request in this regard will have to be filed at the special counter set up on the ground floor of the court complex. Initially, restrictions are being imposed on the entry of litigants and witnesses in order to restrict the footfall so as to prevent spread of the pandemic. If a court found the physical appearance of any litigant or witness necessary, it can permit their physical appearance.

The work of supply of uncertified copies and inspection of judicial record has also been resumed. The order was issued following the recent direction of the Registrar, Punjab and Haryana High Court.