The courts here have started hearing the cases through video-conferencing as a measure to avoid assembly of people and prevent spread of coronavirus infection.
Different courts here have granted bail to eight prisonersinmates involved in different cases through virtual mode.
The counsel for applicants and prosecution submitted theirarguments through WattsApp.
After hearing both the sides, the courts issued the ordersand provided copies of orders to parties via virtual mode.
The order copies received by the parties were at par validwith those courts issued during routine proceedings under law.
Superintendent Central Jail Srinagar had submitted the listof 27 jail inmates to Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar who isalso chairman District Legal Services Authority Srinagar.
As per the legal service authority, all these cases were assignedto legal aid counsel Central Jail Srinagar advocate Mir Naveed Gul.
“There is overcrowding in Srinagar Central jail and someinmates are suffering ailments. There are also senior citizens who deserves tobe released on interim bail or parole which is the need of hour in the view ofCOVID19 threat,” said advocate Gul. “In case, the infection attacks jailinmates suffering from various ailments that will be prove fatal,” he said.
The lawyer said he was filing applications and argumentsthrough e-mail and WattsApp from his residence and in case need arises,telephonically as well.
“The presiding officers are hearing these matters andholding proceedings in such manner in light of the Supreme Court guidelines andorders of J&K High Court,” he said.
Advocate Gul said he has moved 10 bail and paroleapplications before different courts in Srinagar including the Court of CJM,Passenger Tax Court and other Judicial Magistrate of first class.
“Of the 10 applications, eight have been decided and two arepending,” he said.
The Supreme Court has asked states and Union Territories toconsider release of convicted prisoners with up to seven years of sentences;and under-trials, in order to decongest prisons.