Chhattisgarh HC.
Chhattisgarh High Court Bars Litigants, Parties From Carrying Mobile Phones in Courtrooms: Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh – June 30, 2025 – In a move aimed at preserving the sanctity and decorum of judicial proceedings, the Chhattisgarh High Court has issued a strict notification barring litigants and parties from carrying mobile phones or any other electronic devices inside courtrooms, even if switched off. The directive, issued earlier today under the orders of the Chief Justice, also explicitly prohibits any form of audio or video recording of court proceedings.
The notification underscores the High Court’s commitment to ensuring an undisturbed and respectful environment for the administration of justice. It warns that any violation of these instructions will attract “appropriate action” as per the provisions of the Chhattisgarh High Court (Live Streaming of Court Proceedings) Rules, 2022.
While the primary focus of the ban is on litigants and parties, the notification specifically urges advocates and their clerks to ensure strict adherence to these new directions. This call for cooperation from the legal fraternity aims to foster a collective responsibility in maintaining courtroom discipline.
The full text of the notification, as reproduced below, leaves no room for ambiguity:
“The Parties / Litigants, who wish to remain present in the Court Rooms during the proceedings of their cases, are hereby strictly directed not to carry Mobile Phones / Electronic Devices (even in the switched-off mode) and are further directed not to record any part of the Court proceedings. Non-compliance of the above directions shall invite appropriate action as per The Chhattisgarh High Court (Live Streaming of Court Proceedings) Rules, 2022. All the Advocates and their Clerks are also requested to ensure the strict adherence to the above directions.”
Speaking to reporters, the Registrar (Judicial) of the Chhattisgarh High Court clarified the rationale behind the new rule. He stated that the notification was issued in response to recent instances where individuals carrying mobile phones disrupted court proceedings. To prevent such disturbances and ensure the smooth functioning of the courts, the directive was deemed necessary. The Registrar further clarified that the restriction on mobile phones and electronic devices applies exclusively to parties and litigants, and not to advocates or their clerks, who are essential to the legal process.
This latest measure by the Chhattisgarh High Court reflects a broader trend across Indian judiciaries to adapt to technological advancements while simultaneously safeguarding the traditional dignity and operational integrity of courtrooms.
