In response to the chilling winters and consistently deteriorating air quality in the capital city of Delhi, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Suryakant has appealed to lawyers and parties-in-person to embrace hybrid hearings in the Supreme Court. This method offers the convenience of participating virtually through video conferencing.
The Supreme Court Administration issued a circular stating, 'Considering the present weather and air pollution conditions, the Chief Justice has advised members of the Bar and parties-in-person to utilize the hybrid mode through video conferencing, if convenient.' This directive aims to mitigate the health risks associated with Delhi's polluted air.
On Monday, Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 450, marking it as the most polluted day this winter and the second worst AQI level in December. Weak winds and cold temperatures trap pollutants in the lower atmosphere, worsening the situation. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), an AQI of 0–50 is 'good', 51–100 is 'satisfactory', 101–200 is 'moderate', 201–300 is 'poor', 301–400 is 'very poor', and 401–500 falls in the 'severe' category.
Due to the current 'severe' AQI level, health specialists have warned of prolonged exposure risks. On November 26, CJI Suryakant experienced discomfort during a morning walk through Delhi's smog-filled air, prompting him to contemplate transitioning court proceedings fully online.
These remarks were made during hearings on petitions challenging the Election Commission's decisions regarding Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in numerous states. The Supreme Court continues to function in a hybrid mode, offering both physical and virtual sessions. Prior, on November 13, Justice P. S. Narasimha also suggested virtual appearances by lawyers in light of hazardous air quality in Delhi-NCR.
