A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been submitted to the Delhi High Court, advocating for improved mobile network and Wi-Fi accessibility in courtrooms and court complexes throughout Delhi. This matter was addressed on September 2, 2026, by a Division Bench comprised of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia.

Concerns over Connectivity Issues

The petition highlights significant concerns regarding inadequate mobile signals and internet connectivity within several courtrooms. According to the petition, these connectivity challenges are impacting lawyers, litigants, and visitors during court sessions. It asserts that the reliance on electronic filing, digital case records, video conferencing, and hybrid hearings necessitates reliable internet access for effective justice delivery.

The petitioner, Advocate Shannu Baghel, noted that lawyers experience considerable difficulties when attempting to receive instructions from clients, access necessary documents, or participate in virtual hearings while they are present in other courtrooms. Disruptions in connectivity can significantly interfere with ongoing hybrid hearings and video conferencing sessions, as stated in the plea.

Moreover, the petition raises alarm about the complications faced by legal professionals and litigants needing to communicate with their families or clients during emergencies while within court premises. These issues underscore the need for urgent remedial measures to facilitate better communication and operational efficiency during court proceedings.

Judicial Intervention and Technical Assessment Requested

The PIL calls for judicial intervention to set in motion a technical evaluation of connectivity throughout the court complexes. This assessment aims to pinpoint areas with poor network coverage and ultimately provide directions for implementing functional and secure Wi-Fi infrastructure. The petition also calls for collaboration with telecom service providers to establish minimum standards for connectivity within the legal facilities.

In reference to a prior ruling from the Delhi High Court dated March 28, 2024, the petition reiterates an existing demand for seamless internet and Wi-Fi capabilities within the courts. The previous order instructed the relevant authorities to consider the matter thoroughly and arrive at a substantiated decision. However, the ongoing connectivity issues indicate that the situation remains unaddressed.

Baghel asserted that despite following up on the Court’s previous orders, connectivity troubles persist unabated. He also sought information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act concerning the actions taken by authorities to rectify these issues but claims that he did not receive any response.

Impact on the Justice Delivery System

The petitioner argues that adequate technological infrastructure in courtrooms is essential for ensuring effective access to justice. In an increasingly digital landscape, the proper functioning of the court system hinges on reliable connectivity. The petition underscores the importance of addressing these connectivity concerns to support the seamless operation of legal proceedings and maintain the integrity of the justice delivery framework.

Legal professionals contend that without essential technological enhancements, the efficacy of the Indian judicial system may suffer. The ongoing issues with mobile and internet access within court complexes may not only affect individual cases but could also have broader implications for the overall efficiency and transparency of legal processes.

In summary, the PIL seeks the necessary measures to improve mobile and Wi-Fi connectivity, which it deems vital for the modernisation of the legal framework in Delhi. The court’s response to this matter could set a precedent for similar initiatives across India’s judicial institutions, shaping the future of legal proceedings in the country.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share