To modernise the judicial system and prison facilities, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a communication urging all states and Union Territories to integrate advanced technologies into their prison systems. The upgrade will include adoption of video hearings, biometric verification, and creation of short videos aimed at fostering positive change among inmates.
To ensure consistency and standardisation in the implementation of video conferencing and virtual hearings, the Supreme Court had passed a landmark order on April 6, 2020, which conferred legal sanctity to court proceedings through video conferencing, as outlined by the MHA.
The MHA highlighted the formulation of Video Conferencing rules by a five-judge committee, which were shared with all High Courts for adoption after local contextualisation. MHA has said it would save time and costs, particularly benefiting underprivileged litigants. Lawyers can now attend hearings at multiple locations on short notice, and witnesses can participate from the safety of their own locations.
The provision of one video conference equipment for each Court Complex, including taluk level courts, has been implemented. Moreover, the MHA stated that video conferencing facilities have been enabled between 3,240 court complexes and 1,272 jails. Substantial funds have been released by the Department of Justice for 2,506 video conferencing cabins and equipment, covering 14,443 courtrooms. Additionally, 1,500 video conferencing licences have been procured to encourage widespread usage, in collaboration with trial court administrative officers and High Court Registrars.
Besides, the MHA has recently launched the ‘Modernisation of Prisons’ project, which will give a technological upgrade to prisons across India. The procurement of video conferencing equipment is a key component of this initiative, with allocated funds available for prison authorities to enhance their infrastructure.
Recognising the need for accurate prisoner counting, the MHA has advised jail authorities to adopt a biometric verification system in conjunction with physical counting. This dual approach aims to ensure error-free attendance records, mitigate the risk of impersonation, and address other inaccuracies in prisoner counting procedures.
To promote rehabilitation, the government plans to create short videos depicting the lives of reformed prisoners. These videos will depict the feelings of regret and remorse among inmates, the evolution of their thought processes, their reformed lives, acquired skills, and positive messages for fellow inmates. The MHA believes that these films can serve as a source of inspiration, fostering a sense of connection and encouraging inmates across the country to strive for a reformed life and contribute positively to society.
Comments
0 comment