The Indian judicial system is evolving with the help of technology, aiming to offer a more citizen-centric approach. Recently, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) inaugurated an e-Seva Kendra at the High Court of Tripura—an event that garnered considerable attention. This article delves into the significance of e-Seva Kendras and other technological initiatives that are transforming legal services in India.
Unpacking e-Seva Kendras
E-Seva Kendras have been established on a pilot basis in High Courts and in one District Court in each State. They function as a one-stop center for all legal aid and assistance for common litigants and advocates. The primary aim of these Kendras is to provide individuals with a streamlined path to access justice.
Litigants can use these centers to obtain information regarding case status and receive copies of judgments and orders. Further, the Kendras also assist in e-filing cases. These initiatives significantly simplify the process of accessing legal systems for the common citizen.
Other Technological Initiatives in Legal Services
In addition to e-Seva Kendras, a number of other technological initiatives are in place to facilitate access to legal services.
Tele-Law: Addressing Pre–Litigation Stages
Launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Law and Justice and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Tele-Law is a programme aimed at handling cases at their pre-litigation stage. It uses video conferencing facilities and telephone services to connect lawyers and litigants needing legal advice. Particularly, this service aims to assist the marginalized and disadvantaged groups in the society.
Common Service Centres: Bridging the Gap between Lawyers and Litigants
Smart technology like video conferencing and telephone/instant calling facilities at Common Service Centres play a vital role in the Tele-Law programme. Located at the Panchayat level, these centres connect vulnerable and unreached communities with panel lawyers, enabling them to seek timely and valuable legal advice.
e-Courts Project: Digitizing The Judiciary
The e-Courts project was envisaged based on the National Policy and Action Plan for Implementing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the Indian Judiciary – 2005. This pan-India project is monitored and funded by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice.
The objectives of the e-Courts project are manifold. It aims to provide efficient and time-bound citizen-centric service delivery as detailed in the e-Court Project Litigant’s Charter. The development, installation, and implementation of decision support systems in courts are its other objectives.
Moreover, the project aims to automate processes to provide transparency and accessibility of information to stakeholders. Its ultimate goal is to enhance judicial productivity in a way that makes the justice delivery system affordable, accessible, cost-effective, predictable, reliable, and transparent.
These technological initiatives collectively mark a significant change in the landscape of the Indian judicial system, making the path to justice more accessible and navigable for ordinary citizens.