J&K High Court Issues Safety Directions For Border Courts Amid Cross-Border Shelling, Emphasises On VC Hearings & Securing Important Documents

Acting on the escalating situation in Karnah, Kralpora, Uri, and Gurez, where artillery fire from across the border has intensified, the Hon'ble Chief Justice has directed judicial personnel in these locations to move to safer zones.

According to the circular issued by Registrar General (Officiating) M.K. Sharma, court officers and staff relocated from affected areas must remain available to handle emergency matters virtually from their new locations.

The Key directions includes:

i) Ensuring that court records and documents are secured before evacuation;

ii) Making arrangements for hearing urgent civil and criminal matters via video conferencing, with support from the Principal District Judges of Baramulla, Bandipora, and Kupwara;

iii) Court staff facing any issues or requiring help have been advised to contact their respective District Judges;

iv) Regular updates must be shared with the High Court through official communication channels.

These measures will stay in effect until May 12, 2025, or until further orders are issued depending on the ground situation.

With this directive, the High Court has aimed to strike a balance between upholding the justice delivery system and protecting its officers amid unpredictable security developments near the border.