Computerisation of courts by 2010

Total computerisation of courts, likely to be put in place by the middle of 2010, would completely change the judicial system in the country, Chief Justice of India K G Balakrishnan said. The Rs 600-crore computerisation programme was in full swing, as recommended by the e-committee headed by retired Judge Balasubraniam. Under the programme, laptops have been provided to 15,000 courts, 877 high court judges and 26 Supreme Court judges, he said. The courts and judges would have internet connectivity and they will be linked by a software developed by the National Stock Exchange. The network would be ready in two years, he said. The main problem being faced by the judiciary was disposal of cases, he said, pointing out there are 3.5 crore cases pending in various courts. There are 48,000 cases pending in the Supreme Court, a rise of 23% over the last year, the CJI said, adding the country has only 13,600 judges of the actual requirement of 15,000 judges. Asked about forming more courts, he said the government has decided to set up 4,000 more courts, particularly village courts, which are likely to be in place in two to three years. He said states have to cooperate more in opening family courts and CBI courts. “We have started evening courts in cities to try petty cases, the main purpose of which is daily wage earners should not lose money by attending courts,” the CJI said.