Karnal court to replace physical inmate appearances with video conferencing

In a significant step towards modernising the judicial process, the Additional Sessions Judge’s court in Karnal, headed by Dr Sushil Kumar Garg, will implement 100% video conferencing for inmate appearances starting February 1. This initiative, in compliance with the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, aims to replace physical appearances with virtual ones, making Karnal the first district in Haryana to adopt this system completely.

Revolutionising justice

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- While the use of video conferencing in judicial proceedings is not new, this directive signals a broader application, covering all stages of criminal cases, including framing of charges, recording statements, and delivering judgments.

- This initiative is expected to set a precedent for courts across Haryana, ensuring safer, faster and more cost-effective justice delivery while aligning with the modernising goals of the BNSS 2023.

The court has directed the Jail Superintendent to ensure a smooth transition to this new process. Authorities claim this move will save time, reduce the burden on the state exchequer and enhance the safety of inmates by eliminating the risk of escapes during transit.

“This step strengthens audio-visual technology, as emphasised in paragraph 3(1) of the Supreme Court’s Model Rules on Video Conferencing, and ensures greater efficiency in the criminal justice system,” Dr Garg stated in a letter, a copy of which is with The Tribune. The court has also withdrawn all previous orders mandating physical production of inmates.

The new system addresses longstanding issues with inmate transportation, which often requires multiple police personnel to escort the accused. Delays in court appearances due to other police duties have also posed challenges in the past.

Deputy Commissioner Uttam Singh, who oversees the district’s Prosecution Department, praised the initiative. “This is a positive step that will eliminate the need for police teams to escort inmates to court. It saves time and reduces the burden on the government exchequer. We plan to encourage other courts to adopt this practice during monthly coordination meetings,” he said.

Superintendent of Police Ganga Ram Punia emphasised the importance of implementing the new system effectively, stating, “Efforts are being made to ensure compliance with recently enacted criminal laws. Matters related to video conferencing appearances are a priority in monthly coordination meetings.”

Pankaj Saini, Deputy Director Prosecution-cum-District Attorney, confirmed that from February 1, all inmates in cases handled by this court will appear through video conferencing. “This step will streamline judicial processes, minimise logistical challenges and enhance resource utilisation,” he said.