Today(on 28th March),Delhi High Court instructs government to review proposal for better internet in courtrooms. PIL emphasizes importance for access to justice and smooth virtual hearings.
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NEW DELHI: Today(on 28th March),The Delhi High Court has instructed the Delhi government to thoroughly review a proposal aimed at enhancing internet facilities in all courtrooms.
This instruction arose during a session led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, centered on a public interest litigation (PIL) highlighting the crucial requirement for reliable internet connectivity within judicial premises.
The PIL initiated by lawyer Arpit Bhargava emphasized the essential requirement for consistent internet access in courtrooms. This necessity is not only for facilitating access to justice but also for ensuring smooth virtual hearings for lawyers, litigants, and the general public.
Bhargava’s petition revealed that Delhi’s courts lack Wi-Fi and have poor mobile internet. This makes it tough for lawyers and people involved in cases to join online meetings or use essential tools like emails and online filing systems.
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“The entire legal fraternity faces a shared challenge: upon arriving at any district court in person, it’s nearly impossible to find suitable internet connectivity for participating in virtual court hearings elsewhere. This renders the purpose of virtual court hearings ineffective. Due to the absence of reliable internet in court premises across Delhi, lawyers struggle to access emails or conduct e-filings, rendering these efforts futile.”
-Bhargava’s plea highlighted.
Furthermore, the plea admonished the government for its failure to address the inadequate internet connectivity within court premises, despite being fully aware of the issue. This lack of action has effectively rendered the court corridors inaccessible to individuals reliant on virtual hearing facilities or in need of online legal resources.
Additionally, the petition pointed out the irony of the government’s earlier claims about making Delhi a Wi-Fi-enabled city, contrasting it with the actual situation of dysfunctional internet services in important public spaces like courts. This inconsistency not only hinders the administration of justice but also reflects poorly on the government’s commitment to improving digital infrastructure.
“The Wi-Fi service, previously accessible in select markets and malls, has remained inactive for over a year as the Respondent failed to renew the contract. A news report suggests that the services may not be renewed due to the Respondent’s lack of funds.”
-the plea added, pointing out the broader issue of neglected digital infrastructure.
The Delhi High Court’s order to the Delhi government to treat the PIL as an official representation and provide a detailed response within eight weeks is a positive step toward addressing infrastructure deficiencies.
Case Title:
Arpit Bhargava v GNCT of Delhi
