Fuel-saving push reaches Supreme Court: Virtual hearings, WFH and carpools ordered

The article notes that India imports more than 80% of its crude oil requirements, making it vulnerable to disruptions in West Asian supply routes, with the merchandise trade deficit widening in April as crude import costs surged.

RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra indicated that if the West Asia crisis continues longer, the government may eventually pass on some price increases to consumers.

India raised petrol and diesel prices by ₹3 per litre—the first retail price hike in four years—as state-run oil marketing companies sought to offset losses from soaring crude prices.

The circular requires remote staff to remain available on the phone and be prepared to report to office whenever required; registrars are empowered to restrict or modify work-from-home arrangements if the system is ineffective for essential work.

The court also allowed up to 50% of staff in each registry branch to work from home for up to two days a week; registrars were asked to prepare weekly rosters while ensuring uninterrupted court administration.

The judges unanimously resolved to encourage car-pooling arrangements among themselves to ensure optimum utilisation of fuel.

A circular issued by Supreme Court secretary general Bharat Parashar states that all miscellaneous-day matters and those listed on partial working days shall be heard via video-conferencing; registries were instructed to ensure stable VC facilities and timely technical assistance.

Following a full court meeting on Friday morning, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant directed fuel-saving measures including mandatory virtual hearings on Mondays and Fridays during June and July, aimed at reducing on-site travel and fuel use.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier this week urged citizens to reduce petrol and diesel consumption, use public transport, adopt carpooling, and revive work-from-home practices wherever possible, in line with a broader national conservation push.