In a recent incident underscoring the importance of decorum in virtual court proceedings, the Gujarat High Court imposed a fine of ₹2 lakh on an individual who attended a hearing via video conferencing from a lavatory. Additionally, the court mandated that he perform community service by cleaning the gardens within the High Court premises for two weeks.
The individual in question, a 42-year-old B.Sc. graduate employed with the Reliance Group, joined the virtual court session on February 17, 2025, at 12:20 PM, under the name "Kanubhai." His initial appearance was deemed indecent, leading to his disconnection from the session. Undeterred, he rejoined the session from a lavatory, prompting another disconnection. Persistently, he attempted to join again by referencing case number CRA 11948/2023.
Justice M.K. Thakker, presiding over the matter, expressed strong disapproval of the individual's conduct. The court found his explanation—that it was his first time using the High Court's website and that the indecent appearance was accidental—unconvincing, especially given his educational background and professional standing. Justice Thakker emphasized that such behavior is not only unacceptable but also shameful, stating that if courts do not address such actions firmly, it could undermine the institution's dignity in the public eye.
Consequently, the court imposed an exemplary cost of ₹2 lakh on the individual, directing him to deposit the amount with the Registry within two weeks. Furthermore, he was ordered to report to the Special Officer of the Dedicated Cell at 10:00 AM daily and perform community service by cleaning the High Court's gardens under supervision for a fortnight. The Special Officer was instructed to submit a report upon completion of the service, and the Registry was tasked with confirming the deposition of the fine, with warnings of further action should there be non-compliance.
This incident highlights the judiciary's commitment to maintaining decorum and the sanctity of court proceedings, even in virtual settings. The Gujarat High Court has been proactive in integrating technology to enhance transparency and accessibility. Notably, in October 2020, it became the first court in India to live stream its proceedings on a trial basis, a move lauded for promoting openness in the judicial process.
To regulate such initiatives, the Gujarat High Court introduced the "Gujarat High Court (Live Streaming of Court Proceedings) Rules, 2021" in July 2021. These rules stipulate that live-streamed feeds are not considered official records and unauthorized usage, such as copying or commercial exploitation, could lead to contempt of court charges. The guidelines aim to balance transparency with the integrity of court proceedings, ensuring that public access does not compromise the judicial process.
Moreover, in September 2023, the High Court expanded its hybrid hearing system to all courtrooms, allowing participants to attend proceedings either in person or remotely via video conferencing. This expansion followed a successful pilot project and reflects the court's dedication to leveraging technology for greater accessibility. Advocates and parties wishing to utilize the hybrid system are required to submit their requests through an online link provided on the High Court's official website.
The court's stringent response to the individual's misconduct during the virtual hearing serves as a reminder of the expectations of decorum, regardless of the medium through which proceedings are conducted. As virtual and hybrid court sessions become more commonplace, adherence to established protocols and respectful behavior remain paramount to uphold the dignity and effectiveness of the judicial system.
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