Although the Supreme Court introduced virtual hearings on two working days a week to save energy and electricity, the actual situation shows a different picture, with reports indicating higher power consumption compared to physical court proceedings.
In physical hearings, judges, bench officers and lawyers involved in a case sit in a single courtroom, meaning electricity is used in one confined space.
However, under the virtual system, judges, lawyers and court staff operate from multiple separate rooms and locations inside the SC premises. Each space uses air conditioners, lights and fans, significantly increasing overall electricity consumption.
During virtual court proceedings on 30 April, a field visit to six High Court benches and discussions with relevant stakeholders revealed this picture.
Experts say what was intended as a cost- and energy-saving measure has effectively produced the opposite outcome, as electricity use expands across five to six different spaces instead of one.
However, the Supreme Court’s Special Officer (High Court Division), Md Mazharul Haque, disagreed with the claim.
He said that the suggestion of increased electricity consumption in virtual courts is not accurate and that the issue cannot be assessed in such a simplified manner.
During visits to High Court benches on 30 April afternoon, lights, fans and air conditioners were seen running even when caseloads were reportedly low. Court officials said fewer cases were listed that day and most proceedings had concluded earlier in the day.
Responding to a question on differences in case disposal between physical and virtual hearings, an official said the system has been in place for only two weeks and it is too early to assess performance or efficiency.
In some courtrooms, bench officers and clerks were seen in a relaxed state while electrical equipment remained switched on. In a few rooms, lights and fans were running despite doors being locked.
Senior Supreme Court lawyer Syed Mamun Mahbub said the virtual system, introduced to reduce energy consumption, appears to have increased usage instead. He also said hearing processes have slowed down and suggested the decision needs reconsideration.
Deputy Attorney General Redwan Ahmed Ranjib, however, said he had not faced major difficulties with virtual hearings, noting that proceedings were running smoothly. He added that any technical disruptions were later rescheduled.
Another lawyer said recent experience suggests that energy savings are not being achieved, while noting that vehicle movement within the Supreme Court premises has increased.
He added that the judiciary is central to upholding the rule of law, human rights and fundamental rights, and must continue functioning regardless of energy or fuel constraints.
