The High Court of Uttarakhand has opened the doors for wider public participation in shaping the future of technology in the judiciary. In a fresh notice published on its official web portal, the court announced an extension of time for stakeholders and the general public to submit their formal views, suggestions, or comments regarding the draft "Regulations for Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Courts, 2026." This strategic delay ensures that tech experts, legal professionals, and everyday citizens have an ample window to evaluate how automated tools will be safely integrated into the justice system.

While the court is actively looking forward toward a more digital future, it is simultaneously doubling down on traditional courtroom discipline. The same notice makes it explicitly clear that technological shifts will not compromise the solemnity of legal proceedings. Authorities have mandated that all individuals attending court sessions—whether they are sitting physically in the courtroom or logging in virtually from their homes—must wear sober attire that directly reflects the dignity of the institution.

The dress code guidelines carry an even stricter burden for legal professionals. The high court has re-emphasized that advocates appearing before the bench must strictly wear the professional attire prescribed under the historic Advocates Act, 1961. This reminder serves as a firm warning that logging in from a remote laptop screen during a video conference does not excuse a legal representative from wearing the formal robes and bands required by statutory law.

Beyond operational policies and rules, the High Court has also reinforced its role as a public safety net for the local community. The administration has reminded citizens that its dedicated emergency helpline number (05942-233377) remains fully operational. This phone line is designed to offer direct help, legal guidance, and administrative advice to individuals who find themselves in deep distress or navigate complex, overwhelming legal crises without clear direction.

At the same time, the judiciary is taking a highly aggressive stance against digital piracy and the unauthorized distribution of its daily work. The court issued a stern warning against anyone attempting to record, manipulate, or reuse its virtual proceedings. Any unauthorized usage or recording of the court's video-conferencing feed, by any technical means, will be treated as a severe criminal and civil offense.

The legal consequences for breaching these digital privacy barriers are incredibly severe. Violators will face immediate prosecution under the Indian Copyright Act, 1957, alongside the Information Technology Act, 2000. Furthermore, the court has made it clear that it will aggressively deploy other applicable legal provisions, including the swift invocation of the law of contempt, to punish anyone who compromises the security of its digital streams.

Ultimately, these combined announcements paint a vivid picture of a modernizing legal system trying to find its footing in 2026. By extending the feedback loop for the 2026 AI regulations, the Uttarakhand High Court is aiming for transparent, balanced technological growth. However, by strictly regulating attire and enforcing heavy criminal penalties for illegal recordings, it is sending a clear message: the tools of justice may change, but the authority, privacy, and respect of the court remain completely non-negotiable.