The present government of India has taken so many measures for the betterment of India’s rank and simplification of the process to do business. Government is still on its consistent way to simplify the foreign investment norms, improve labor laws, and give big support  ‘Make in India initiative’. 

The government of India received proposals from international companies to manufacture electronics in India. This scenario reveals the positive aspects when it comes to discussing discuss growth in the economy. The amendment of Arbitration and conciliation Act, 1996 by the government also played a major role in providing a quick remedy to parties to resolve the disputes. After that, the implementation of the Commercial Courts Act, 2015 by the government was another a strong step in the direction to mobilize the e-court project”.

What is the concept of e-courts?

An e-court is a space where matters of law are decided in the availability of the qualified judge. However, the concept of e-court is different than that of computerised court, but it ensures the availability of well-developed technical infrastructure. In consideration of e-court, everything is executed and managed in an online environment with the aid of the Internet and other information and communication technology. 

How e-court service is beneficial?

  • The e-court service project ensures the availability of ICT and confirms the affordability and cost-effectiveness of the delivery system. 
  • Make legal processes easy and increase the user-friendliness
  • The complete work execution is made digitally, where the sharing and storage of database in secure and synchronized with specific software.
  • The complete process from the initial filing of the case till final judgement is done online therefore it saves time, brings transparency and protects the interests of witnesses.

Potential challenges while setting up e-courts

At one end an e-court is a very strong step that ensures the better and speedy justice for the public, the establishment of e-courts brings multiple challenges with it. These challenges might include:

  • Lack of communication or coordination between several departments
  • Need to train a large number of employees
  • Lack of technical manpower in courts
  • Less awareness of e-court facility and benefits amongst advocates
  • The successful deployment of the e-court system will need the deployment of the new age technology
  • Cybersecurity threat 
  • Limited availability of sufficient infrastructure, internet connectivity or electricity in most of the Talukas/villages.

How challenges in establishing the e-court system can be overcome?

  • Create a strong policy to encourage the establishment of e-courts
  • Focus on creating a well-planned framework 
  • Set a roadmap and give direction to the e-courts scheme
  • Upgrade the present state of infrastructure
  • Focus on implementation of a robust security system that ensures secure access and processing to all information related to the case
  • There should be dedicated efforts for the training of concerned personnel. 
  • Spreading awareness around e-courts via roadshows, and seminars.

Despite so many disadvantages, an online system always brings transparency and accountability in the system. Similarly, establishing e-courts service ensures transparency and maintains accountability in the judicial system. It will result in more transparency, judicial reforms and dealing with long-pending cases.