Because the case involves several documents or complex issues, therefore, trial courts can never refuse to conduct examination of witnesses through VC mode just.
Chennai: Madras high court has said that a stage has come where any proceedings can be conducted through video-conferencing (VC) mode.
Justice N Anand Venkatesh made the observation while allowing K Balasundaram, 72, a practicing doctor in London, to give evidence before a district court in Coimbatore in a partition suit by appearing through video-conferencing. it goes without saying that the Madras High Court Video Conferencing Rules, 2026, shall be strictly followed While the court below conducts the trial. This is why the Madras High Court Video Conferencing Rules, 2026, were notified and which prescribe the procedure for recording the evidence through VC mode, the judge said.
Pointing out that Balasundaram has undergone a bypass surgery and has been advised against making long distance travel, the court said, “The age and health ailments faced by Balasundaram justify his appearance through VC mode. Several complex arbitration cases involving large turnover and several volumes of documents are being conducted conveniently through online/VC mode.
In the case in hand, it is not a complex issue as Balasundaram is seeking the relief of partition and for allotment of 1/3rd share in the suit properties. He is also seeking to declare the judgment and decree dated March 17, 2024, on the file of the District Munsif Court, Coimbatore as null and void.
Hence, his cross examination can be easily conducted through VC mode, the judge said.