Delhi High Court Emphasizes Balance Between Physical Attendance and Technological Advancements in Legal Studies

Court Dismisses Law Students' Petitions, Calls for Online Class Solutions

In a significant step towards modernizing legal education, the Delhi High Court has urged Delhi University (DU) and the Bar Council of India to explore the development of a comprehensive system for conducting online classes for law students. This directive, issued by Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma, highlights the need to balance the integrity of physical attendance in professional courses with the potential of technology and artificial intelligence to create effective remote learning platforms.

The court dismissed petitions from law students who challenged Delhi University’s decision to bar them from exams due to insufficient attendance. While acknowledging the importance of physical attendance, the court clarified that no relaxation in attendance requirements could be granted under writ jurisdiction. However, it encouraged the authorities to embrace technological advancements for virtual classes, suggesting that both DU and the Bar Council of India develop a mechanism to offer online classes with necessary safeguards in place.

In its February 11 judgment, the court recognized the value of physical attendance but pointed out that advancements in technology and AI provide an opportunity to develop effective remote learning methods. It also assumed that students had provided their mobile numbers and email IDs during admission or could update them if not already done. Further, the court stressed the importance of notifying monthly attendance, along with lecture and practical details, for each student. To ensure timely communication, the court recommended that the Faculty of Law send updates via email, SMS, and WhatsApp, and maintain records of these notifications.

The court also stated that the Dean of the Faculty of Law, in consultation with the Bar Council of India, could establish a mechanism for students to submit attendance-related representations. If these requests were found to be genuine, the authorities could take appropriate action. It also clarified that its writ jurisdiction would not be used to grant relief in cases of “manifest disregard of discipline by students.” Finally, the court emphasized that maintaining the integrity of the L.L.B. course was essential. It warned that retroactive relaxation of discipline would not only undermine the credibility of the professional course but also unfairly disadvantage students who diligently fulfil their academic responsibilities. The court's directive encourages a balance between technological advancements and maintaining academic integrity to ensure fair and effective legal education.

Editor's Note:

In light of the Delhi High Court's recent directive, it is evident that the landscape of legal education is evolving to embrace the benefits of technological advancements. Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma's call for Delhi University and the Bar Council of India to develop a comprehensive online learning mechanism for law students marks a pivotal step towards modernizing professional education. While the importance of physical attendance remains undisputed, the integration of remote learning platforms can offer flexibility and accessibility to students. This balanced approach will uphold academic integrity and discipline while harnessing the potential of technology and artificial intelligence to enhance the educational experience. 

Skoobuzz underlines that it is crucial to ensure that appropriate safeguards and conditions are in place to maintain the credibility and effectiveness of legal education.