Supreme Court mulls 24X7 emergency protocol to protect life, liberty

The Supreme Court is deliberating on a formal mechanism to ensure judicial oversight is available around the clock, cited as a necessity for protecting life and liberty. This initiative stems from concerns regarding state actions, including deportations and property demolitions, that are frequently scheduled during weekends or public holidays when courts are typically closed.

Currently, urgent listings depend on the discretion of the Chief Justice and high-ranking officials through informal channels. The proposed protocol would institutionalize access to justice, acknowledging that credible reports of executive overreach often involve maneuvers executed outside of standard operating hours to bypass legal scrutiny.

Legal experts suggest that a structured emergency system would standardize the process for citizens seeking immediate stays or relief. By establishing a 24/7 window for judicial intervention, the court seeks to reinforce its role as a protector of constitutional rights against arbitrary administrative measures. Source: Supreme Court of India.