AI Impact Summit: Supreme Court Allows Advocates to Appear via Video Conferencing from February 16–20

Apex court to function in hybrid mode during the summit period; physical appearance remains optional.

New Delhi:The Supreme Court of India has announced that advocates will be permitted to appear through video conferencing from February 16 to 20 in view of the upcoming AI Impact Summit. The court clarified that the arrangement will be temporary and optional, with all benches functioning in hybrid mode during the specified period.

In a notice issued by the apex court administration, it was stated that lawyers may choose either physical or virtual appearance for hearings scheduled between the mentioned dates. The move is aimed at ensuring smooth judicial proceedings while accommodating logistical considerations linked to the summit.

Hybrid Functioning of Benches

During the five-day window, all benches of the Supreme Court will operate in hybrid mode. This means that proceedings will allow participation both in person and through video conferencing platforms.

Court officials emphasised that the option to appear virtually is entirely voluntary. Advocates who prefer to attend hearings physically can continue to do so as usual.

Ensuring Uninterrupted Proceedings

The temporary arrangement has been introduced to avoid inconvenience to litigants and lawyers who may face travel or security-related disruptions during the AI Impact Summit being hosted in the national capital.

Legal experts noted that the Supreme Court has effectively used hybrid and virtual systems since the COVID-19 pandemic, making it easier to implement such measures when required.

Flexibility for the Legal Fraternity

Members of the legal community have welcomed the decision, stating that hybrid functioning provides flexibility without affecting court schedules. The court administration has assured that all technical infrastructure will remain operational to ensure seamless hearings.

The arrangement will remain in force from February 16 to February 20, after which regular physical functioning is expected to resume unless further orders are issued.