The Supreme Court will convert to virtual proceedings for two weeks, beginning tomorrow, as India experiences a surge in coronavirus cases, thought to be caused by the Omicron type. The new type, which is considered to be extremely infectious, has been recorded in most states across the country.
In October, the Supreme Court, which reopens tomorrow after a winter break, resorted to physical hearings for the first time in over a year, owing to a reduction in Covid cases in India.
“It is hereby notified for the information of members of the bar, parties-in-person, and all others concerned that, in light of the increasing number of cases of Omicron variant (COVID-19), the competent authority has been pleased to direct that the modified Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for physical hearing (hybrid mode) notified on October 7, 2021, will remain suspended for the time being, and all hearings before the courts will be suspended for a period of two weeks from and with effect
The administration said this morning that more than 1,500 people in the country have developed the new strain.
Most major cities are seeing an increase in instances, including Delhi and Mumbai, where new limitations have been implemented.
Bengal also announced a slew of new restrictions today, including the closure of schools. Work-from-home requests have been made to offices.
Since Covid’s arrival in India in March 2020, the Supreme Court has been hearing cases. On October 7, it shifted to hybrid mode.
