Now, summons can be sent via WhatsApp, Mail and Fax

New Delhi : The Supreme Court on Friday ruled that summons can be handed over via digital mediums like email, fax and instant messaging mobile applications. The decision comes after it was learned that physical visit to a post office is not possible during the pandemic time.

In a first, the order passed by a three-judge apex court bench headed by Chief Justice S.A. Bobde held that all methods are to be employed to provide a valid service to a party and it shall include service through messenger services like WhatsApp and other telephone messenger services.

This happens to be another major step towards digitalization as the apex court had been hearing the cases via video conferences since March.

Chief Justice Bobde said, "If the two blue ticks are there then it can be proved under Evidence Act, but if the person has turned it off, then it cannot be proven. So WhatsApp can be used (for summons)."

The bench also comprising Justices AS Bopanna and Subhash Reddy passed this order in a suo moto writ, taking cognizance of extension of the limitation period.