"Supreme Court Urges Tech-Friendly Judges for Hybrid Hearings"

Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud has urged all high courts in India to embrace technology and implement virtual modes of hearing cases within two weeks. He criticized certain high courts, including the Allahabad High Court and the Bombay High Court, for their reluctance to adopt technology in their judicial functioning. The Chief Justice emphasized that technology is no longer a matter of choice but an essential part of the justice system, comparing it to law books and a driving license. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining the investment-intensive infrastructure for virtual hearings, which was established during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Supreme Court has allocated Rs 7,000 crore for the development of e-Courts, and the Chief Justice called on high courts to demonstrate their commitment to technological advancements.