Jammu & Kashmir’s judiciary took a significant leap towards modernity this week as the Administrative Council, chaired by the Lieutenant Governor, approved a two-pronged initiative to transform the court system. In a move aimed at bolstering judicial capacity, the Council authorised an enhancement in the cadre strength of District Judges, granting them well-deserved recognition and equipping the system to handle its ever-increasing workload. This timely decision reflects the commitment of the J&K administration to ensuring swift and efficient justice delivery.
The increase in District Judge positions is an important landmark decision. The authorised strength for Selection Grade and Super Time Scale Judges has been hiked to 35% and 15%, respectively, from the existing 25% and 10%. This translates to a significant infusion of experienced legal minds into the system, directly addressing the concerns of case backlogs and overburdened courts. The notable expansion in the sanctioned strength for Selection Grade and Super Time Scale Judges has paved the way for enhanced opportunities in the career progression of lower judges. This development is a crucial aspect of their professional advancement. The increased number of judges in higher grades will alleviate the workload on those with additional responsibilities, resulting in more streamlined operations for all district courts. This measure aligns with the recommendations of the Second National Judicial Pay Commission, underscoring the Government’s dedication to fair compensation and career progression for its judges.
The second important decision of this transformation is the ambitious revamping of the High Court’s ICT infrastructure and videoconferencing capabilities. This Rs. 61.78 crore project, once cleared by the Technical Appraisal Committee, promises to usher in a new era of digital justice in J&K. The project envisions hybrid courtrooms, connected courts, and next-generation network advancements, enabling virtual presence and seamless online connectivity. This shift acknowledges the transformative potential of technology in expediting legal proceedings and reducing costs for litigants, a trend that has only accelerated in recent times.
The impetus behind this digital leap is clear. The pandemic has irrevocably altered the landscape of legal proceedings, emphasising the need for robust virtual infrastructure. By embracing this shift, the J&K administration demonstrates its foresight and responsiveness to evolving realities. The proposed interventions offer multiple benefits: streamlined communication, quicker resolution of cases, and enhanced accessibility for litigants across the Union Territory. With the surge in virtual collaboration and remote proceedings, the incorporation of hybrid courtrooms is particularly noteworthy. Every aspect of courtroom requirements has to be taken care of. These courtrooms, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, will facilitate a seamless transition between physical and virtual hearings, ensuring that the justice system remains resilient and adaptable to changing circumstances and emphasising the importance of a well-integrated judicial network.
However, ensuring the success of this digital transformation requires careful planning and execution. It will be crucial to consider the observations of the Technical Appraisal Committee and address any potential roadblocks. Collaboration with the High Court remains paramount, ensuring that the revamped system aligns with their vision and operational needs. Additionally, exploring avenues for reimbursement under the e-Court Mission Mode Project II can optimise resource allocation and expedite project implementation.
Looking ahead, J&K’s judicial landscape holds immense promise. As the Union Territory embraces the era of digital transformation, these initiatives are poised to create a more accessible, adaptable, and resilient judiciary. The integration of technology into court proceedings aligns with global trends, ensuring that the justice system remains at the forefront of innovation. With a strengthened cadre of district judges and a cutting-edge ICT infrastructure, the system is poised to deliver swifter, more accessible justice to its citizens.
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