The Delhi High Court Today (May 29th) announced that it will hear the cases of litigants and lawyers with disability on a priority basis. Cases of persons with disabilities will also be given preference.
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NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court announced that it will prioritize hearing the cases of litigants and lawyers with disabilities.
Cases involving persons with disabilities will also be given preference.
According to a circular issued in this regard, litigants or advocates with disabilities, as well as lawyers handling cases of persons with disabilities, have been asked to inform the Registry about their matters.
“All the litigants/advocates with disabilities and advocates dealing with the cases pertaining to persons with disabilities are impressed upon to apprise the office of Registrar (Listing) about their ongoing cases before the concerned Bench of this Court so that they can be identified and be listed categorically in the Cause List and disposed of on priority,”
-the circular states.
This measure ensures that individuals with disabilities and those representing them receive timely and efficient access to justice.
The Delhi High Court’s decision to prioritize hearing cases involving litigants and lawyers with disabilities is a commendable step towards ensuring equitable access to justice. This move highlights the judiciary’s recognition of the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and underscores the importance of inclusivity within the legal system.
First and foremost, prioritizing these cases acknowledges the difficulties that individuals with disabilities may encounter in navigating the legal process. Physical accessibility issues, communication barriers, and the need for specialized accommodations can make it harder for disabled litigants and lawyers to participate fully in court proceedings. By giving their cases precedence, the High Court is demonstrating a commitment to mitigating these challenges and fostering a more inclusive environment.
Furthermore, this initiative aligns with the principles of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which mandates equal treatment and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. It reflects a proactive approach to upholding these rights, ensuring that legal processes do not inadvertently discriminate against those with disabilities.
The circular issued by the Delhi High Court also emphasizes the importance of clear communication and systematic organization. By instructing litigants and advocates to inform the Registrar (Listing) about their cases, the court ensures that these matters are easily identified and scheduled appropriately. This procedural clarity helps in minimizing delays and ensures that the court can allocate resources efficiently to address these cases.
In addition to benefiting individuals with disabilities, this policy also supports advocates who represent them. Lawyers working on behalf of disabled clients often face additional burdens, including the need for extra preparation to accommodate their clients’ specific needs. Prioritizing these cases helps alleviate some of these pressures, enabling lawyers to provide more effective representation.
Moreover, the decision sets a positive precedent for other courts and legal institutions across the country. It serves as a model of how judicial systems can adapt to better serve all members of society, particularly those who may be marginalized or face additional obstacles. This move can inspire other courts to implement similar measures, promoting a broader culture of inclusivity and accessibility within the legal community.
Ultimately, the Delhi High Court’s initiative is a significant step towards a more just and inclusive legal system. By prioritizing cases involving litigants and lawyers with disabilities, the court not only enhances access to justice for these individuals but also reaffirms the legal system’s commitment to equality and fairness. This policy exemplifies how thoughtful, proactive measures can create a more inclusive society, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to seek and obtain justice.
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