In the heart of New Delhi, the High Court has issued a directive to the municipal government to treat a plea concerning uninterrupted digital connectivity, including access to Wi-Fi, in all judicial venues across the capital with due consideration. Legal representative Aprit Bhargava, in his litigation of public interest, highlighted the detrimental impact of limited or absent internet access within Delhi’s court complexes on not just legal practitioners but also judges, journalists, litigants, court personnel, and other concerned parties.
“The current petition is to be viewed as a formal request by the respondent, who is instructed to deliberate upon it within the bounds of legal statutes,” asserted a panel presided over by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan on Thursday. Throughout the hearing, the panel, which also included Justice Manmeet PS Arora, emphasized the necessity for pertinent authorities to assess the matter thoroughly prior to any judicial decree.
Representing the petitioner, Advocate Beenashaw N Soni implored the court to compel the Delhi administration to render a verdict on the petition. Citing personal experiences, Bhargava contended in his plea that the deficiency or absence of internet connectivity within Delhi’s court complexes, including the Patiala House Court, Rouse Avenue Court, and the High Court, constituted a significant impediment to the efficient dispensation of justice.
Bhargava further alleged that despite being cognizant of the prevailing circumstances and the adverse effects of lacking internet connectivity within judicial premises, the authorities had chosen to ignore the plight of legal professionals and litigants. The petition highlighted that the authorities’ inaction had resulted in the inability to access virtual hearings, email correspondence, or the electronic filing portal from any court facility in Delhi.
The plea further contended that the respondent displayed a blatant reluctance to take immediate action in the installation, enhancement, or provision of uninterrupted internet connectivity across Delhi’s judicial precincts, thereby obstructing the public’s access to justice and virtual hearings within court premises.
