Leveraging Technology in the Judiciary: A Strategic Initiative for Democratizing Access to Justice, Says Chief Justice of India (CJI)

Rajkot, Jan 6:  Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud emphasized the strategic role of optimizing technology in the judiciary, stating that it is not just about modernization but also a move towards democratizing access to justice. Speaking at the inauguration of a new district court building in Rajkot, Justice Chandrachud highlighted the need to train lawyers in utilizing technology for efficient justice delivery.

He underscored the significance of district courts in realizing the right to justice, considering them a cornerstone of constitutional ideals. The inclusion of a conference room and a training room in the new court building, equipped with the latest audio-video devices, was praised as a forward-looking feature.

Justice Chandrachud noted the alignment of the new court building’s facilities with the hybrid and online conferencing systems implemented in the Supreme Court, adapting to changing times for swift justice delivery. He expressed inspiration from the upcoming construction of the Supreme Court’s new building with advanced technology.

The Chief Justice urged the principal district judge to ensure training for lawyers in technology use, emphasizing the critical role of district courts as the initial point of recourse for citizens seeking redress. He linked his visit to temples at Somnath and Dwarka, highlighting the symbolic meaning of the “dhwaja” (flag) in the judicial community.

Justice Chandrachud envisioned a commitment to swiftness, accessibility, and impartiality in the pursuit of justice within the new court building. He praised the ‘zero waste facility’ at Somnath temple, urging it to inspire turning every court system in the state into a “zero waste” facility.

Recalling the COVID-19 pandemic, he highlighted the judiciary’s adaptability, dealing with urgent and routine cases even when physical access to the Supreme Court was limited. He commended the provision of separate washrooms for young women lawyers in the new court building, emphasizing its role in defining social progress in the judiciary.

The Chief Justice applauded the amalgamation of courtrooms in one centralized location for streamlining the legal process and reducing the burden on legal professionals and litigants. Additionally, he mentioned the establishment of new “vulnerable witness deposition centers” for child witnesses and women victims of gender violence, along with an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) system promoting mediation as an essential aspect of the judiciary’s progress.