Shimla: Days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens to reduce expenses on fuel and gold, the judges of the Himachal Pradesh High Court unanimously decided on Monday to promote car-pooling among themselves and implement limited work-from-home arrangements for staff. This decision is part of a series of measures introduced by the court administration with immediate effect.
Work-from-Home Policy Details
According to a circular issued by the High Court registrar general, up to 50% of employees in each branch or section of the court registry may work from home for a maximum of two days per week, subject to approval from the concerned registrar. The circular emphasizes that adequate staff strength must be maintained in offices to ensure uninterrupted functioning of the court administration. Registrars have been directed to prepare weekly rosters in advance to facilitate this arrangement.
Employee Obligations and Flexibility
Employees working remotely are required to remain available via telephone and report to the office whenever needed. The circular also empowers registrars to restrict or modify work-from-home arrangements if necessary. It states: "If after considering the essential nature of the work in a branch or section, the concerned registrar(s) is of the opinion that a work-from-home arrangement is not effective, the registrar(s) may restrict or modify such arrangements for that branch or section."
Compliance with Central Directives
The circular notes that these measures were adopted in compliance with directives issued by the central government's Department of Personnel and Training on May 12, and a subsequent circular from the Supreme Court on May 15. The High Court's proactive steps align with the national push towards resource conservation and operational efficiency.
