Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, recently urged district court lawyers to embrace technology and promote access to justice during a speech at the inauguration of a new district court building in Rajkot, Gujarat. He emphasized that the use of technology within the judiciary is not just about modernization but also a strategic move to ensure access to justice for all. The Chief Justice highlighted the need to train lawyers in the use of technology in order to bridge gaps, enhance efficiency, and overcome geographical and technological barriers.
The Chief Justice drew inspiration from his recent visit to the Dwarkadheesh temple in Gujarat, particularly the significance of the dhwaja (flag) atop the temple. He stated that this flag symbolizes a unifying force that binds lawyers, judges, and citizens together. He emphasized that the pursuit of justice should be characterized by swiftness, accessibility, and impartiality.
Justice Chandrachud also mentioned the ‘zero waste facility’ at the Somnath temple and encouraged the transformation of every court system in the state into a zero waste facility. He highlighted the importance of district courts, stating that they play a crucial role in ensuring the right to justice for every citizen. He praised the new court building in Rajkot for its forward-looking features, including a conference room and a training room equipped with the latest audio-video devices and systems.
The Chief Justice emphasized the role of technology in delivering speedy justice and mentioned that the Supreme Court is soon launching the construction of a new building with advanced technology and facilities. He called upon the district court judges to ensure that lawyers are trained in the use of technology and stressed the importance of generating citizens’ confidence in the judiciary.
Justice Chandrachud also appreciated the inclusion of separate washrooms for young women lawyers in the new court building, hailing it as a reflection of social progress. He mentioned the amalgamation of courtrooms into one centralized location, which has streamlined the legal process and reduced the burden on legal professionals and litigants.
The Chief Justice inaugurated an artificial intelligence (AI)-based text-to-speech call-out system, an e-filing 3.0 platform, and video conferencing centers to facilitate witness testimony in Gujarat’s district courts. These technological advancements are aimed at saving time and resources while promoting alternative dispute resolution.
In conclusion, Chief Justice Chandrachud’s speech emphasized the need to embrace technology in the judiciary to ensure access to justice. He praised the new district court building in Rajkot for its modern features and called upon lawyers and judges to be proficient in using technology. By leveraging advancements in technology, the aim is to bridge gaps, enhance efficiency, and ensure justice delivery is not impeded by geographical or technological barriers.
