CJ bats for enhancing justice system
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 16 2024: High Court of Manipur chief justice Siddharth Mridul, while addressing the 78th Independence Day celebration held at the High Court Complex on Thursday, emphasised the court's ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and efficiency of the judicial system.

In his speech, the chief justice highlighted several key initiatives, including the implementation of hybrid hearings across the state, the establishment of e-Sewa Kendras to assist in digital interactions, and the translation of landmark judgments into local languages.

He said that the High Court and district courts have successfully implemented hybrid hearings, making justice more accessible, especially for those in remote areas.

e-Sewa Kendras have been set up across all court complexes in the state to assist lawyers and litigants with digital interactions.

Landmark judgments from the Supreme Court and the High Court are being translated into local languages, with a legal glossary in Manipuri under preparation, he elaborated.

Further stating that launch of digital HC reports provides free access to landmark judgments and headnotes, overcoming the barriers posed by costly online journals, chief justice Siddharth confided that the HC has decided to increase the minimum wages for the daily wagers with approval from the state government.

The Chief Justice also proposed increasing the retirement age for High Court officers and staff to 62 years.

He further said that the High-Level Monitoring Committee is working to fast-track infrastructural development and address human resource deficiencies in the district judiciary.

Plans are in place to distribute IT equipment to Bar Associations in the High Court and District Courts to aid in the implementation of e-filing.

The ultimate goal is to introduce paperless courts across the state to enhance efficiency and accessibility, the chief justice maintained.

He further stated that the High Court is actively working on establishing Gram Nyayalayas (village courts) across the state to bring justice closer to the grassroots level and also stressed on the importance of implementing robust security protocols for judicial officers.

He further disclosed that a proposal was made to establish a Centre for Research and Planning in the High Court of Manipur to monitor case pendency, upgrade infrastructure, and ensure timely recruitment in district courts while emphasising the ongoing commitment to building a vibrant and effective judicial system in Manipur.

He also called for continued upholding of the values of justice, equality, and freedom.

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