With fuel saving steps being adopted nationwide, the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a significant administrative circular introducing a series of measures aimed at conserving fuel, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring smooth judicial functioning amid growing concerns over rising crude oil prices and national energy security.
The circular, issued by the Office of the Registrar General at Srinagar under Circular No. 16 of 2026/RG dated May 20, 2026, states that the directions have been adopted in view of the nationwide call for “Economic Self-Defence.”
As per the order, the High Court will encourage virtual hearings and virtual appearances by advocates and litigants with effect from May 21, 2026. The court has directed that proceedings through virtual mode must strictly follow the decorum and protocols already prescribed for online hearings.
The High Court has also announced that during the upcoming vacation period beginning June 8, 2026, all nominated Vacation Benches will primarily function through virtual mode. However, advocates unable to participate through video conferencing due to unavoidable reasons may appear physically whenever the court is functioning in person.
In another major decision, all physical administrative inspections and official visits to district courts have been suspended until further orders. Administrative meetings will also be conducted virtually to minimize travel and fuel consumption.
The circular further states that the Leave Travel Concession (LTC) facility for Judicial Officers and High Court staff, except those already sanctioned, shall remain suspended till further orders. However, the order clarifies that the LTC block period will be proportionately extended for the duration during which the facility remains unavailable.
The J&K Judicial Academy has also been directed not to conduct any physical training programmes. All workshops, training sessions, orientations, and academic activities will now be held through virtual mode only.Additionally, registry officers have been advised to pool official transport facilities wherever feasible to reduce fuel consumption and ensure optimal use of government resources.The circular has been issued under the authority of Registrar General M.K. Sharma.
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