Concerned about a lack of online etiquette by practising professionals and litigants, MahaRERA has come out with a circular on maintaining courtroom decorum, warning both to be disciplined or be ready to face its wrath. Professionals practising in MahaRERA have welcomed the move but expect the authority to be more proactive about bringing transparency and winning litigants’ confidence by registering FIRs against errant developers. They have also called for forensic audits of accounts in cases where money has been siphoned off and ensure the speedy hearing and execution of orders.

Anil D’Souza, Hon Secretary, Bar Association of MahaRERA, welcomed the circular, saying in one hearing, he witnessed a litigant appearing in a banian. “Even advocates have been admonished for improper attire at times. Litigants must follow protocol and good manners. On rare occasions, we do have someone in the courtroom improperly dressed with scant regard and respect for the bench. Basic attire and decency should be followed by all, in a formal environment.”