SC now open for guided tours on Saturdays

The Supreme Court would now be open for guided tours for the general public on Saturdays.

One of independent India’s first major buildings designed by architect, Ganesh Bhikaji Deolalikar now could be explored by the public on all Saturdays, except on public holidays.

Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi launched the project on Thursday in a small function held at the Judges’ Lounge inside the apex court premises.

He said the idea behind the venture is that “a public institution should be opened up in a limited way”. He also launched an in-house think tank to strengthen the knowledge infrastructure of the court.

The tours would be free of charge, but rules like a ban on bringing eatables, tobacco items, cameras, bag packs for visitors would be applicable. Creating any kind of commotion or smoking inside the premises would be barred.

Visitors who book their tour online will be ushered through the majestic courtrooms, the plush and book-heavy judges’ Library and introduced to the majestic structure in its full glory between 10 am and 1 pm every Saturday except declared holidays. The excursion will be rounded up with a visit to the Supreme Court museum. The guide will educate batches of 20 visitors to historic cases and architecture of the building. A short film will be shown to culminate the experience.