Kanoon Ki Dastak
Jammu, March 26, 2025 – The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) regarding the personal appearance of government officials in court proceedings. This follows the Supreme Court’s judgment in State of Uttar Pradesh & Ors. vs. Association of Retired Supreme Court and High Court Judges at Allahabad & Ors.
The SOP classifies cases into three categories: evidence-based adjudication, summary proceedings, and non-adversarial proceedings. It emphasizes that officials should not be summoned unless necessary and provides for virtual appearances as a first option. The guidelines also stress respectful conduct in court, avoiding unnecessary remarks about officials’ appearance or background.
Additionally, the SOP outlines compliance timelines for judicial orders and procedures for contempt cases. The notification, signed by Registrar General Shahzad Azeem, directs all courts under the High Court’s jurisdiction to adhere to these guidelines.