New Delhi, May 15 (JKNS): The Supreme Court of India has introduced a series of fuel conservation measures, including mandatory video-conferencing hearings on miscellaneous days, car-pooling among judges, and work-from-home arrangements for registry staff, in line with the Centre’s advisory on reducing fuel consumption.
According to a circular issued by the Supreme Court on May 15, a copy of which lies with news agency JKNS, the directions have been implemented with immediate effect following an Office Memorandum issued by the Government of India’s Department of Personnel and Training on May 12, 2026.
As per the circular, all matters listed on miscellaneous days such as Mondays, Fridays, and other notified miscellaneous hearing days, along with cases listed during partial working days of the Court, shall now be heard exclusively through video-conferencing mode. The Supreme Court Registry has been directed to ensure smooth virtual proceedings by providing timely hearing links, maintaining stable technical infrastructure, and extending prompt technical assistance to avoid inconvenience to the Bench.
In another significant step aimed at optimum fuel utilization, the judges of the Supreme Court have unanimously resolved to encourage car-pooling arrangements among themselves.
The circular further states that up to 50 percent of the staff in each branch or section of the Supreme Court Registry will be permitted to work from home for up to two days every week until further orders. However, adequate staff presence in offices will be ensured to maintain uninterrupted functioning of the Court administration.
The concerned Registrars have been instructed to prepare weekly duty rosters in advance and ensure timely completion of official work. Employees working from home have also been directed to remain available on telephone and report to office whenever required.
The circular additionally empowers the concerned Registrar to modify or restrict work-from-home arrangements in any branch or section if such a system is found unsuitable considering the nature of work. (JKNS)
