Restrictions on court sittings extended by JSC over COVID fears

• No cases to be heard in open court
• Cases to be rescheduled for dates in May
• Only urgent applications to be taken up

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) yesterday extended its earlier directive to Commercial High Courts, Civil Appellate High Courts, HCs, District Courts, Magistrate Courts and Labour Tribunals to restrict court sittings in view of the spread of COVID-19.

The JSC said that no cases are to be called in open court and all cases are to be rescheduled. Cases that were to be taken up between 20 to 27 March are to be postponed for on or before 15 May, except for matters pertaining to bail or any other matter where the Judge is of the view it cannot be delayed.

Those whose seek urgent orders were directed to file a motion to that effect before 10.00 a.m. for consideration by the Judge, and for orders relating to extension of remand, to be done wherever possible without the prisoners being brought to court.

The JSC further directed that video/Skype links be set up with the assistance of prison authorities in this regard.