JAMMU, May 20 : The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a series of administrative directions, including encouraging virtual hearings, suspending Leave Travel Concession (LTC) facilities and shifting official activities online, in view of the nationwide call for “Economic Self-Defence” and concerns over rising crude oil prices and energy security.
According to a circular issued by the Office of the Registrar General at Srinagar on Tuesday, the measures will remain in force until further orders.
The circular stated that with effect from May 21, 2026, the High Court will encourage virtual hearings and virtual appearances by advocates, subject to prescribed decorum and protocol for online proceedings.
It further said that during the court vacation period commencing from June 8, 2026, nominated Vacation Benches will hear matters through virtual mode. However, advocates unable to participate via video conferencing due to unavoidable reasons may appear physically whenever courts function in physical mode.
The High Court also directed that no physical administrative inspection or district visits will be conducted until further orders, and that all administrative meetings will be held virtually.
In another major decision, the Leave Travel Concession (LTC) facility for judicial officers and High Court staff—except those already granted the benefit—has been suspended until further orders. The circular clarified that the LTC block period will be extended by one month for every month the facility remains unavailable.
It further stated that the Judicial Academy will not conduct physical training programmes, and all training sessions, workshops and orientations will now be held in virtual mode only.
Additionally, registry officers have been directed to pool transport facilities wherever feasible to reduce fuel consumption and ensure optimal utilisation of official resources.
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