Judicial Academy holds orientation programme for lawyers, officers

The Jammu & Kashmir Judicial Academy, Srinagar, organised a special orientation programme on “Medical Forensics & Medico-Legal Aspects in Trial; Different Dimensions of Cyber Crimes and Electronic Evidence”.

The programme was organised under the patronage of Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Judicial Academy), Justice Arun Palli and under the guidance of the chairperson and members of the governing committee of the academy, for judicial officers of the district judiciary of Kashmir province including UT of Ladakh, public prosecutors, additional public prosecutors, assistant public prosecutors, and investigating officers.

The programme commenced with introductory remarks by Director, J&K Judicial Academy, Sonia Gupta, who outlined the objectives of the orientation programme. She emphasised that in the age of digital transformation and advancing forensic technologies, the judiciary and prosecution must stay equipped with evolving scientific, medical, and technological developments that critically shape the administration of criminal justice.

Speaking on the occasion, Senior Assistant Professor, School of Law, University of Kashmir, Dr Mir Junaid Alam focused on the theme “Demystifying the Information Technology Act, 2000 with Reference to Cyber Crimes viz. Issues, Challenges and Way Forward”.

He discussed the legal and procedural complexities arising from cyber offences, data breaches and online frauds. He also highlighted the gaps between technology and enforcement and emphasised the need for judicial officers and investigators to enhance their understanding of digital footprints, data preservation and admissibility of electronic records.

In his address, he also underscored the importance of judicial sensitivity to privacy, digital rights and due process in cases involving cybercrime.

Registrar Vigilance, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Rajeev Gupta addressed on the topic “Electronic Evidence: Definitions and Characteristics”. He outlined the essential requirements for the admissibility of electronic evidence.

He also discussed judicial precedents governing electronic records, the authenticity of digital signatures, and challenges in verifying metadata and data chain integrity. He stressed that the digital age demands a deeper understanding of technological processes to prevent miscarriage of justice due to procedural lapses in electronic documentation and certification.