Courts in the Northeast region of India are grappling with a severe space crunch and a lack of digital infrastructure, hampering the dispensation of justice. The cramped conditions in many courtrooms make it challenging for judges, lawyers, and litigants to conduct proceedings efficiently.
The inadequate infrastructure is particularly evident in the smaller towns and rural areas of the Northeast, where courtrooms are often overcrowded and lack basic amenities. This not only affects the speed and efficiency of legal proceedings but also compromises the safety and well-being of those involved.
Furthermore, the lack of digital infrastructure exacerbates the challenges faced by the courts in the region. Many courtrooms do not have access to modern technology, such as computers, internet connectivity, and digital filing systems, making it difficult to manage case records and conduct virtual hearings.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for digitalization in the judicial system, with courts across the country increasingly relying on technology to ensure continuity of legal proceedings during lockdowns and social distancing measures.
However, in the Northeast, the transition to digital platforms has been slow due to limited resources and infrastructure constraints. As a result, many courts continue to rely on outdated manual processes, leading to delays and inefficiencies in the justice delivery system.
The space crunch and lack of digital infrastructure in Northeast courts not only impede access to justice but also undermine public confidence in the judicial system. Citizens expect a fair and efficient legal process, but the current challenges faced by the courts hinder the realization of this goal.
Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort by both the central and state governments to invest in modernizing court infrastructure and implementing digital solutions. This includes building new court complexes with adequate space and facilities, as well as providing training and support for the adoption of digital technologies.
Furthermore, there is a need for greater collaboration between government agencies, judiciary, and civil society organizations to identify solutions and mobilize resources to address the challenges faced by Northeast courts.
Moreover, the cramped conditions and lack of digital infrastructure in Northeast courts pose significant challenges to the dispensation of justice in the region. Addressing these issues requires urgent action and investment to ensure that all citizens have access to a fair and efficient judicial system.
