Punjab & Haryana High Court Favors Video Conference Testimony to Advance Justice
Procedural Rules Should Facilitate Justice, Not Obstruct It .

In an important judgment promoting the use of technology in courts, the Punjab and Haryana High Court held that courts should not reject requests for recording evidence through video conferencing merely on technical grounds.


Background
The dispute arose when a party sought permission for a witness to depose through video conferencing because personal appearance was not possible.
The trial court rejected the application by adopting a restrictive interpretation of procedural rules governing virtual testimony.


High Court’s Analysis
The High Court emphasized that procedural rules are intended to facilitate justice and not create unnecessary obstacles.
The court observed that modern technology should be utilized to simplify judicial proceedings and ensure access to justice.


Key Observations
The court held that:
Procedural provisions must be interpreted liberally where justice demands.
Video conferencing is a valid mode of recording evidence.
Courts should focus on ensuring witness identity and credibility rather than insisting upon physical presence in every case.
Technical rules should not defeat substantive justice.
Trial Court Order Set Aside
The High Court set aside the trial court’s order and permitted reconsideration of the request in accordance with the principles laid down in the judgment.


Key Legal Takeaway
Video conferencing has become an accepted component of modern judicial administration. Courts are expected to adopt a practical approach that balances procedural safeguards with access to justice.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh operates a hybrid hearing system, utilizing platforms like Webex for video conferencing (VC). Advocates and litigants must file an application to request a virtual appearance, and specific VC links are published daily.

Virtual Court Guidelines and Links

For advocates and parties participating remotely in the High Court or Subordinate District Courts, specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) apply:

  • Advance Request: An application must ordinarily be submitted in advance to schedule a VC appearance.
  • Accessing Links: Daily VC links and guidelines for the High Court are released by the registry. You can check daily VC court links on the official Punjab and Haryana High Court portal.
  • Virtual Lobby: Upon joining, participants are placed in a virtual lobby and admitted by the court coordinator.
  • Punctuality & Formatting: It is mandatory to rename your display upon joining in the format: [Item Number]-[Party Number] (e.g., 115-respondent No. 22). [1, 2, 3]

District Courts (Chandigarh)

If you are dealing with matters in the subordinate courts in Sector 43, Chandigarh, separate rules apply. The district judiciary has formalized Video Conferencing Rules. You can locate your specific courtroom link on the District Court Chandigarh directory. [1, 2]

Rules and Protocols

Strict decorum must be maintained during virtual proceedings. Unauthorized recording of proceedings is strictly prohibited, and participants must ensure they connect from a quiet environment. For a detailed breakdown of the official protocols, you can review the High Court’s complete Model Video Conferencing Guidelines. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

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