SRINAGAR: The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a stringent directive enforcing punctuality and strict adherence to prescribed office timings for all officers and officials within the District Judiciary of both Union Territories. The order signals a firm stance against any deviations, with violations expected to trigger legal action.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the circular, issued by Registrar General MK Sharma on April 22, 2026, cites non-compliance with High Court Order No. 1638/NG dated May 22, 2020, as the basis for the renewed emphasis on timely presence and diligent work discharge. Observations indicated that some personnel were leaving offices before the conclusion of court sessions, thereby impeding the swift resolution of official matters and constituting a breach of established protocols.
The directive aims to cultivate a culture of punctuality and accountability throughout the judicial administration. It explicitly prohibits late arrivals and early departures without official authorization. Furthermore, staff members are barred from leaving their workstations or offices during designated working hours unless they secure prior approval from their respective Controlling Officers.
In addition to emphasizing personal punctuality, the circular places a direct responsibility on Controlling Officers to ensure that official business is not adversely affected and that all duties are executed with the utmost diligence. The order clearly states that any contravention of these instructions will be viewed with extreme seriousness, and defaulting officials will face consequences under the applicable legal provisions.
The High Court has formally communicated this directive by forwarding copies to key administrative and judicial offices. These include the Principal Secretary to the Chief Justice, Registrar Vigilance, Director of the Jammu and Kashmir Judicial Academy, Member Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Legal Services Authority, and the Registrar Inspection. This widespread dissemination ensures all relevant authorities are informed and tasked with ensuring compliance.
The enforcement of these timings is critical for maintaining the efficiency and credibility of the district judiciary. Presiding officers have noted that inconsistent attendance and early departures by administrative staff can lead to delays in case processing, administrative tasks, and public service delivery. The High Court’s intervention aims to rectify these inefficiencies and uphold the expected standards of judicial functioning across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The judicial system relies on the timely and organized functioning of its administrative arms to support the courts in their primary duty of dispensing justice. The circular underscores the importance of every individual’s role in this process, emphasizing that adherence to established schedules is not merely a procedural formality but a fundamental requirement for effective governance and the timely dispensation of justice.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
