Tech for Justice: CJI Chandrachud's Push for Inclusive Digital Courts

You know, it’s not every day that the Chief Justice of India makes an appearance, and when he does, his words truly resonate. Recently, in a significant event that marked a new chapter for judicial infrastructure in Haryana, Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud was in Rohtak to inaugurate a brand-new judicial complex and district court building. But beyond the cutting of ribbons and ceremonial speeches, his visit carried a powerful message: the future of justice, he firmly believes, is intertwined with technology, and it must be a future that leaves no one behind.

"Accessibility to justice for all," he emphasized, "is paramount." And frankly, in our modern world, that simply isn't possible without embracing the digital revolution. CJI Chandrachud spoke passionately about the need to integrate modern technology into our court complexes, seeing it not just as an efficiency booster, but as a crucial bridge for those who often find themselves on the margins. Think about it: how can we truly claim to offer justice if our systems inadvertently exclude individuals with disabilities or those struggling with the digital divide? It's a fundamental question we must confront.

This vision isn't just theoretical, mind you. It means concrete steps: ensuring our judicial websites are truly accessible, not just for the tech-savvy, but for everyone. It means providing essential services like sign language interpreters and Braille material in court, because justice shouldn't require a special set of capabilities to navigate. And, let's be honest, this digital transformation isn't just for the courts; it's also a significant call to action for the legal fraternity. Lawyers, too, must step up, adapt, and learn to harness technology's incredible potential. It's no longer an option, really; it’s an absolute necessity to best serve their clients and the pursuit of justice itself.

The ongoing e-courts project, for example, is a testament to this commitment, actively working to bridge that very digital divide. The move towards live streaming of court proceedings? That’s a huge leap for transparency, allowing the public to witness justice unfold. Even the concept of hybrid hearings, where participants can join virtually, makes the process so much more flexible and, well, human-centric. CJI Chandrachud's point was crystal clear: technology isn't just about speed; it's about ensuring that its benefits genuinely reach "the last person in the queue," ensuring nobody is left behind simply because they can't access a physical courtroom or understand a complex digital system.

It’s worth noting that the Punjab and Haryana High Court, under the leadership of Chief Justice Ritu Bahri, has been quite proactive in this regard, pushing for technological advancements. Their efforts, combined with the vision laid out by the CJI, paint a promising picture. And speaking of progress, the new judicial complex in Rohtak itself is a significant step forward. Housing 25 modern courtrooms, complete with ample parking and other essential facilities, it represents a tangible commitment to creating a more efficient and welcoming environment for all those involved in the judicial process. It's a physical embodiment of that commitment to the future.

Ultimately, what we're seeing here is more than just an upgrade of infrastructure or the adoption of new gadgets. It’s a profound shift in how we conceive of justice itself. By wholeheartedly embracing modern technology, ensuring it’s accessible and user-friendly for everyone, from the experienced barrister to the most vulnerable litigant, we move closer to a truly equitable and transparent legal system. It's a challenging, yet absolutely vital journey, one that promises to make justice not just a legal concept, but a tangible reality for every single citizen.