In a recent move to enhance the efficiency and decorum of court operations, the Surat Court has banned the use of mobile phones by court employees during working hours. Announced on 17 May, the order has been issued by the principal district and sessions Judge RT Vachhani.
The decision follows complaints that mobile phone usage was disrupting court proceedings and negatively impacting the quality and dignity of office work. The new rule aligns with previous similar orders issued by the Gujarat High Court and the Surat District and Sessions Court.
The directive mandates that employees must submit their phones to their department heads or the registrar, except in cases of urgency. They will only be allowed access to their devices during recess and after office hours.
Ensuring compliance with the directive will be the responsibility of the registrar and department heads.
Court sources suggest that this measure likely stems from judges receiving complaints about employees using their phones for non-official purposes, or senior court officials observing widespread mobile phone use that was affecting court operations.