Bombay HC Issues Guidelines Amid COVID Lockdown

The Bombay High Court on May 04, 2020, issued a circular on precautions to be taken during the course of business in courts of Goa, Maharashtra, Union Territories of Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli. The circular mentions that the COVID-19 pandemic requires everyone to take precautions during the lockdown. Accordingly, it further notified that it will be necessary while entering the Court Complex; to take precautions in the interest and safety of everyone.

The circular reads as “In continuation with earlier circulars issued from time to time by the Bombay High Court; the Hon’ble the Chief Justice and Hon’ble Judges of Administrative Committee; have been pleased to issue the following directions that; The Courts shall function as they are functioning presently. In essence, taking up remand work and extremely urgent matters as per guidelines; issued in circular dated 16.04.2020 until further orders. The Annual General Transfer of this year kept in abeyance till April 2021.”

Additionally, it states that the Government of Maharashtra has issued guidelines for precautions to be taken by staff while working; which should be noted by the Courts in the State of Maharashtra, the State of Goa and Union Territories of Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu. After a comprehensive review, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued an Order to further extend the Lockdown for a further period of 2 weeks beyond 4^th May 2020. Accordingly, it is deemed necessary to scrupulously follow new guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.