The Kerala High Court has recently decided to incorporate WhatsApp messaging as an additional feature in its Case Management System (CMS) to ensure seamless access and timely communication for advocates, litigants, and parties-in-person. The said messaging service is set to commence w.e.f. 06-10-2025.
The guidelines in this regard state that WhatsApp will be used to share all information regarding e-filing defects, listing details, proceedings, any other relevant updates, and that the services will be enabled in a phased manner.
It is further mentioned that all official messages will be shared exclusively from the verified sender ID – The High Court of Kerala to ensure authenticity and prevent misuse or fraud.
Further, the guidelines asked the stakeholders to ensure that their WhatsApp-enabled contact number is accurately updated in the CMS profile and to add a secondary contact number if the primary number is not WhatsApp-enabled.
The guidelines state that any non-delivery or delay in delivery would not absolve the stakeholders from making effective appearances or participating in the proceedings.
It was also notified that WhatsApp messaging service is only an additional mode of information and not a substitute for notices/summons or any other processes.