Ali v. State & Ors

In Ali v. State & Ors the Delhi High Court struck down the court’s gate pass policy that required photo ID and justification for entry. It held the policy unconstitutional for violating the open court principle under Indian procedural law by limiting access to listed litigants or those inspecting records. The Court found the rule disproportionately burdened vulnerable groups, including the poor, women, and children, and risked denying access to justice. It reaffirmed that court access extends beyond parties and lawyers to include journalists, students, and the general public. The Court stressed that such restrictions undermine transparency, deter public participation, and obstruct oversight of the justice system, especially in cases involving gender-based claims or rights advocacy.

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