How Can Govt Say There Is No 5G Connection? Delhi High Court Seeks Response On PIL For VC Hearings In District Consumer Forums

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday sought response of the Delhi government on a PIL seeking resumption of VC hearings and proper water and washroom facilities in the District Consumer Commissions in the national capital.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice dk Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela granted three weeks' time to the Delhi Government for filing an affidavit to the petition.

Two weeks' time has been given to the petitioner for filing rejoinder, if any. The matter will now be heard on September 17.

The petition has been filed by Advocate SB Tripathi claiming that after the COVID-19 pandemic, hearing through VC mode has been discontinued in all 10 Delhi District Consumer Commissions.

Reference has also been made to Tripathi's RTI application to which three District Commissions responded and said that there is no infrastructure available for VC hearings and that a 5G connection is required for smooth functioning through VC proceedings.

On this, Justice Gedela questioned the Delhi Government's counsel that at this age, how can the government take a stand that there is no 5G connection to enable VC hearings in the Commissions.

The plea further submits that despite judicial orders, the authorities failed to provide even basic water and washrooms facilities in the Delhi District Consumer Commissions for Advocates and public.

Tripathi has also sought a direction on the authorities to make appointment of judicial officers in all 10 Delhi District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions to avoid judicial vacancies.

Title: SB Tripathi v. Union of India & Ors.