The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to the third phase of the eCourts project. This central government scheme, slated for a four-year period starting in 2023, is set to receive a budget allocation of ₹7,210 crores. The eCourts project aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of inclusive development and accessible justice for all.
e-Courts Project Phase 3: Pioneering Accessible and Inclusive Justice
The eCourts Mission Mode project, a vital component of the National e-Governance Plan, has been in progress since 2007, with the second phase concluding in 2023. The third phase builds upon the successes of the previous phases and focuses on enhancing accessibility and inclusiveness.
Transforming Justice Delivery: e-Courts Phase-III Unveiled
The third phase of the e-Courts project aims to further streamline the administration of justice in India. It introduces an intelligent system to assist judges and registries in making data-driven decisions when prioritizing cases. A significant goal is to establish a common technology platform for the judiciary, fostering seamless and paperless coordination among courts, litigants, and stakeholders.
e-Courts Phase III: A Central Government Initiative
Implemented by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India, in collaboration with the eCommittee, Supreme Court, e-Courts Phase-III seeks to make justice accessible, cost-effective, reliable, predictable, and transparent for all beneficiaries. High Courts across the country are playing a pivotal role in the decentralized implementation of this scheme.
Components and Cost Estimates of e-Courts Phase-III
The e-Courts Phase-III scheme encompasses various components, with associated cost estimates, including scanning and digitization of case records, cloud infrastructure, additional hardware for existing courts, establishment of virtual courts, paperless court operations, system and application software development, solar power backup, video conferencing setups, e-filing, connectivity, capacity building, and more, totaling ₹7,210 crores.
Expected Outcomes: Bridging the Digital Divide and Beyond
The e-Courts Phase-III project is expected to bridge the digital divide by enabling citizens without access to technology to utilize court services through e-seva centers. Digitization of court records will reduce paper usage, promote eco-friendliness, and streamline court proceedings. Virtual court proceedings will reduce costs related to physical appearances in court, and the project will also expand e-filing capabilities, enhancing accuracy and transparency in court proceedings.
