New Delhi: The Supreme Court has opened its door for guided tour of its premises for general public on every working Saturday except on declared holidays.
A pre-online booking would be mandatory for top court’s guided tour, which will offer visitors to gain inside access to the grand interiors of the Supreme Court building, which was constructed in 1958, with its foundation stone laid by first President of India Dr Rajendra Prasad in 1954, and admire the majestic structure in its full glory. The visitors will be accompanied throughout the top court premises and they will be introduced to parts of historical importance and will also get a chance to witness the court rooms.
What visitors will be able to see?
Visitors will be able to sightsee the grounds which usually takes about an hour and ushered through the courtrooms and National Judicial Museum and Archive. They will also get a glimpse inside the New Judges’ library in the administrative building complex of the top court where entry on other days is particularly restricted.
A court official will be assigned as tour guide
A court official will be assigned as the tour guide who will elaborate upon the structure of the Indian legal system and keep the visitor engaged with intriguing examples of decided cases and the historical significance behind the architecture of the building.
“In pursuance of the directions of the competent authority, the guided tour shall be conducted on every working Saturday, except second and fourth Saturdays and declared holidays in four slots from 10 am to 11.30 am; 11:30 am to 1 pm; 2 pm to 3.30 pm and 3.30 pm to 5 pm,” a circular issued on January 9 by Registrar Mahesh T Patankar (court and building) said.
No fee will be charged for a tour of the top court
Pre-planned escorted visits can be arranged, subject to online booking made in advance, which can be done by visiting the official website of the Supreme Court of India. The visitor will need to go to the “Registration” tab under the link “Guided Tour” on the top court’s official website and fill the short online form to confirm reservation. Online booking is subject to confirmation sent via text message or email after registration. No fee will be charged for a tour of the top court, but absolute compliance with the rules and regulations is expected from all visitors.
