New Delhi | July 31, 2025 

In a move aimed at easing overcrowding in its courtrooms, the Supreme Court of India has issued a new directive barring law interns from entering courtrooms on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays. The restriction follows repeated appeals from the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), which raised concerns over increasing congestion during crucial hearing days.

The SCBA, in a letter addressed to the court registry, expressed its discomfort over what it described as “unmanageable footfall” in courtrooms, libraries, and even common areas during high-volume hearing days. The association noted that on days with large admission and miscellaneous matters usually Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays the presence of law interns added to the chaos, often leaving advocates struggling for space.

Acting upon SCBA’s concern, the Supreme Court Registry released an administrative note stating that:

“In view of the requests made, entry of law interns into courtrooms shall be restricted on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays with immediate effect.”

However, the registry clarified that interns will still be permitted on Wednesdays and Thursdays, which are generally reserved for regular hearing matters and involve comparatively lighter foot traffic.

Full access to all working days Now   Access allowed only on Wednesdays & Thursdays
Allowed inside even during admission days  Now  Barred on busy hearing days (Mon, Tue, Fri)
No distinction between interns and litigants Now Only interns are restricted, not parties-in-person or students observing

This move is likely to impact legal interns attached to chambers of Supreme Court advocates or working under senior lawyers for short-term training and court exposure.

While the Court has not outrightly denied interns access altogether, it is clearly prioritizing the efficient functioning of courtroom proceedings over unrestricted access. The directive tries to strike a middle ground—allowing interns to learn and observe proceedings, but only on less-crowded days.

Legal experts suggest this may push internship programs to adapt, perhaps encouraging interns to attend on structured schedules or shift more toward virtual observation and research assistance.