Kerala High Court Will Soon Use WhatsApp To Communicate Listing, Other Updates To Advocates & Litigants

The Kerala High Court has recently issued a notice informing about its decision to incorporate WhatsApp messaging as an additional feature in its Case Management System (CMS).

The additional feature, which is set to start with effect from October 6 in a phased manner, would communicate information related to e-Filing defects, listing details, proceedings and other relevant updates. Communications would be sent to advocates, litigants and parties-in-person.

It is further clarified that the WhatsApp mode is not a substitute for notices/summons or other processes, unless otherwise notified.

A word of caution is also made out in the notice, warning users to remain cautious of fraudulent messages from other numbers using similar services. It is made clear that only updates from the official sender ID should be relied upon.

"Any non-delivery or delay in delivery of the informational messages will not absolve the Advocates, litigants and Party-in-Person from making effective appearances or participating in the proceedings in the Courts. The stakeholders are advised to cross-check and cross-verify the information on the official web portal of the Courts for confirmation," the notice states.

The notice also gives step-by-step guidelines to update mobile number to avail the facility.

Click to Read/Download the notice