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Synopsis

In response to safety concerns arising from the tragic September 24, 2021, courtroom shooting at Rohini district court, the Delhi High Court, during its suo motu case proceedings on Thursday, directed authorities to ensure a robust deployment of police personnel in district courts across the national capital.

A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Mini Pushkarna emphasized the urgent need for enhanced security measures, considering the substantial footfall witnessed by district courts.

The bench highlighted that district courts often experience a shortfall of 20 to 30 percent in police deployment, raising alarm about the potential risks associated with such gaps.

The court stressed the importance of meticulous planning and urged the Delhi government's counsel to guarantee sufficient manpower for the safety of all court visitors.

Acknowledging the challenge of regulating entry with multiple gates at district court complexes, the court deemed it "impossible" to manage the extensive footfall without a structured methodology. Concerns were raised about the risk of stampedes, prompting the court to consider alternative entry mechanisms, such as a visitor pass system.

The Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) expressed its intention to address security concerns by proposing the installation of boom barriers, proximity cards, and other security measures.

The court affirmed its confidence that the matter would be expeditiously reviewed by the building maintenance committee of the high court upon presentation by the bar association.

Accordingly, the court is scheduled to further hear the matter on February 1, 2024.

Notably, on September 30, 2021, the suo moto petition was initiated following the tragic shootout incident. The High Court emphasized the imperative for proper and effective deployment of an adequate number of police personnel in courts. In April, the court directed a stakeholders' meeting, including police and bar representatives, to discuss security measures within courts and formulate suggestions.

In a status report submitted last year, the police disclosed the deployment of 997 security personnel, including local police and CAPF, across all seven district courts. Additionally, significant security infrastructure, comprising over 2700 CCTVs, 85 baggage scanners, 242 handheld metal detectors, and 146 door frame metal detectors, had been installed in district courts.

The high court previously instructed the Delhi Police Commissioner to conduct periodic security reviews, based on expert security audits, to ensure the optimal deployment of personnel and the installation of necessary security gadgets.

Case Title: Court on its own motion v. Commissioner of Police & Ors.