Era of virtual courts

Source: Telangana Today (online)

To read this article online, go to the link: https://telanganatoday.com/era-of-virtual-courts

Application of IT must become a key element of judicial reforms in India which has over 3 crore pending cases

Virtual courts may well become an integral part of Indian judiciary as it braces up to adopt new technologies to guide the justice delivery system in the time of coronavirus pandemic. Under the prevailing circumstances of physical distancing, the judiciary is opting for virtual modes to ensure timely delivery of justice. The Supreme Court has issued a new standard operating procedure that facilitates e-filing and virtual hearing and has also set up a helpline to assist advocates in submitting the petitions. The apex court has been holding courts through video conferencing since March 25 due to the nationwide lockdown and had suspended the entry of advocates and other staff in view of the need to maintain physical distancing. The timing of sitting of the virtual courts is notified in the respective cause lists, which is published well in advance. These are timely developments to utilise the advances in the information and communications technology to deliver justice at a crucial time and under unprecedented circumstances. It must be pointed out that many countries had embraced virtual technologies long ago for speedy and hassle-free delivery of justice. The video and audio-enabled hearings save significant court costs in terms of building, staff, infrastructure and transportation for all the parties.

The apex court’s plan to work out some kind of a mixed model of virtual and actual courts is a welcome development. There is a need to boost the infrastructure required for seamless functioning of virtual courts like robust internet connectivity, installation of large screens and error-free web applications to enable smooth videoconferencing. Reforms to reduce the burden on Indian courts have been long overdue. The coronavirus pandemic has only accentuated the urgency to use technology to find solutions that minimise physical contact and provide an affordable form of access to justice. Chief Justice of India SA Bobde has spoken about the potential of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence to help streamline the processes. The application of information technology must become one of the key elements of the judicial reforms in a country which has over three crore pending cases at various levels. Affordable technology-led solutions for easier resolution is an idea whose time has come. Technology startups engaged in innovative solutions can play a crucial role in harnessing the unlimited potential of technology to connect stakeholders in the justice delivery system and in finding solutions that are affordable and efficient. One of the key areas where these startups can disrupt the status quo is through technology-augmented solutions in remote dispute resolution. Online Dispute Resolution has the potential to become a game changer by erasing physical barriers and significantly reducing the cost of litigation.