Author : Vanshika Verma College : University School of Law and Legal Studies, GGSIPU
To the Point
The judiciary is a fundamental pillar of democracy which is entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the rule of law, principle of natural justice, protection of constitutional rights, and safeguarding the interest of the citizens. The primary function of the Judiciary in India is to apply the law to specific cases where it needs to settle disputes. Traditionally, the Justice system across jurisdictions has been characterized by physical courtrooms, paper-based documentation, face-to-face interactions, and procedural formalities. However, with the advent of globalization in technology has brought about an unprecedented transformation in how courtroom function, how justice is delivered, and how legal processes are accessed by the public.The development of online platforms within the justice system, often referred to as Digital Justice, it signifies a paradigm shift aimed at making the judiciary more accessible, efficient, transparent, and responsive to contemporary needs. The incorporation of Artificial Intelligence tools and digital evidence management in e-filling systems, virtual hearings, online dispute resolution mechanisms had steadily become an integral part of judicial processes worldwide. While the movement towards digitalization was underway at that time COVID-19 pandemic hit and acted as a catalyst to adopt virtual modesty of functioning to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of justice. During this period, over 1.5 crore cases were heard through video conferencing in Indian courts, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of the justice system in the face of a global crisis. In India, initiatives such as the E-courts Project, the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG), and virtual courtroom platforms have been at the forefront of this digital transformation. E-court services aims to usher in a regime of maximum ease of justice by moving towards digital, online, and paperless courts through digitization of the entire court records including legacy records, and by bringing in universalisation of e-filing/ e-payments through saturation of all court complexes with e-Sewa Kendras. It will put in place intelligent smart systems enabling data based decision-making for judges and registries while scheduling or prioritizing cases. The comprehensive digitization of court records, including legacy records and pending cases. Moreover, the video conferencing facilities to courts, jails, and hospitals. This transformation aims to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the judiciary by ensuring ease of justice for citizens through convenient and hassle-free court experiences. However, the integration of technology into the justice system not only but also significant challenges. Issues related to the digital divide, particularly in rural and economically weaker sections, concerns around data privacy, cybersecurity, the admissibility of electronic evidence, and the readiness of the legal fraternity to adapt to technological tools remain critical areas of concern. Moreover, there is an ongoing debate on whether technology can fully replicate the procedural rigor and human elements associated with traditional courtrooms.
Abstract
The justice system is undergoing a digital transformation with the rise of online platforms such as e-filling systems, virtual hearings, online dispute resolution, and AI-assisted legal tools. These advancements aim to enhance access to justice, transparency, and efficiency, and shift accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, challenges such as the digital divide, data privacy, and cyber security remain pressing concerns. This article explores the development of online platforms in the justice system, supported by legal frameworks, and case laws, while addressing these need for inclusive, secure, and technological sound judicial processes.
The proof
The advancement and integration of online platforms within the justice system are not merely theoretical concepts but supported by concrete data, government initiatives, global case studies, judicial pronouncements, and practical outcomes. As per the Supreme Court of India’s reports, from March 2020 to December 2022, over 1.5 crore cases were heard through video conferencing across various courts in India. The Supreme Court alone conducted more than 2,00,000 virtual hearings during the pandemic period, showcasing large-scale adaptability. As of 2024, over 19,000 district and subordinate courts have been integrated with the E-courts system, providing online case status, cause lists, judgements, and video conferencing facilities. Furthermore, the National Judicial Data Grid provides real-time data on pending and disposed of cases across India. Over 23 crore case records and over 20 crore orders or judgement have been made available to the public, enhancing transparency. Bar Council of India recognised the inevitability of online platforms but emphasised training and infrastructure development for effective implementation. According to the Parliamentary Standing Committee Reports of 2023-24 highlighted the success of E-Courts while recommending improvements in cybersecurity, accessibility for rural populations, and digital literacy programs.
Case Laws
- Swapnil Tripathi v. Supreme Court of India (2018) 10 SCC 639
Legal Issue: Whether live streaming of court proceedings is permissible to promote transparency and accessibility.
Judgement: The Supreme Court of India, in this landmark decision, held that live streaming of court proceedings, particularly for matters of constitutional importance, is a part of the right to access to justice under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court emphasized that technology can play a vital role in enhancing the judiciary. It directed that necessary guidelines be framed for implementing live streaming while safeguarding sensitive information.
Significance: This case was the first judicial recognition of technology as a tool to make a court proceedings accessible to the public and also led to pilot projects of live streaming in various High Courts and eventually in the Supreme Court’s Constitution Bench hearings.
- Anwar P.V. v. P.K. Basheer (2014) 10 SCC 473
Legal Issue: Conditions for the admissibility of electronic records as evidence.
Judgment: The court clarified that electronic records, such as digital documents, emails, or recordings, are admissible as evidence only if accompanied by a valid certificate under Section 65B of the Indian Evidence Act , 1872. This ensures the authenticity and reliability of electronic evidence in judicial proceedings.
Significance: This case gave an essence for virtual courtrooms and e-filing systems for submitting electronic evidence frequently and reinforces the legal structure supporting digital justice mechanisms.
Conclusion
The evolution of online platforms in the justice system is no longer a distant ambition but a practical and progressive reality. The integration of technology through e-filing portals, virtual hearings, digital evidence systems, and AI-driven legal tools has brought unprecedented transformation in how justice is delivered, accessed, and administered. This transition has improved efficiency, reduced pendency, enhanced transparency, and expanded access to justice, especially for individuals from remote and marginalized communities. The regular training programs shall be conducted for judges, court staff, and lawyers to ensure familiarity with digital platforms. The court websites, if simplified, will be accessible even to non-technical users. Thus, technology in the judiciary must not only be a tool for efficiency but a bridge towards inclusive and participatory justice. The goal should be to ensure that no citizen is denied justice due to lack of access, awareness, or affordability.
FAQs
Ques 1. Are other countries also using online courts?
Ans. Yes, countries like the United Kingdom, United States, Singapore, and Canada have adopted online courts, AI-assisted judgments, and ODR mechanisms. These models serve as useful references for India’s digital justice reforms.
Ques 2. Can a litigant without internet access still participate in digital court proceedings?
Ans. Courts are taking steps to ensure inclusivity. Many districts now offer video conferencing facilities and help desks. However, to fully bridge this gap, the government must provide more public digital access points and legal aid support.
Ques 3. What is SUPACE, how is it used?
Ans. SUPACE (Supreme Court Portal for Assistance in Court Efficiency) is an AI-powered research tool launched by the Supreme Court to assist judges in gathering case-related information quickly and efficiently. It helps in analyzing legal precedents and streamlining judgment writing.
Ques 4. However has the E-Courts Project helped the Indian Judiciary?
Ans. The E-Courts Project has digitized thousands of courts across India. It has enabled online case filing, digital cause lists, remote access to court records, and video conferencing. As of 2024, over 19,000 courts are connected digitally, greatly improving transparency and efficiency.
