Hyderabad:A vulnerable witness deposition centre (VWDC), where witnesses can testify in a safe, intimidation-free setting was inaugurated at the Rangareddy district court complex on Friday by acting Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court, Justice Sujoy Paul.The Chief Justice also opened a digitisation centre, which will provide access to filing of cases online and reduces delays caused by physical documentation. Chief Justice Sujoy Paul also digitally opened several civil and magistrate courts in Rajendranagar and an additional district and sessions’ judge’s court in Chevella.Justice Sujoy Paul stated that establishing new courts alone does not guarantee effective justice. “Courts are not just buildings. They serve their purpose only when they function with purity and efficiency. History has shown that the judiciary’s strength lies in the faith of the people. Our commitment should ensure that justice is both accessible and meaningful.”He urged advocates and judicial officers to work together to ensure timely disposal of cases. He also stressed how technology and digitization must lead to faster case resolution.Administrative judge of RR district court, Justice P. Sam Koshy, stressed the importance of VWDC, explaining that the facility was established away from the main court premises to ensure that witnesses feel safe enough to testify without fear. On the new courtrooms in Rajendranagar and Chevella, Justice Koshy said, “this marks a new progress. Now it is important that we work towards faster case disposal to ensure litigants are not subject to unnecessary delays.”“Witnesses should never have to face their offenders in open court. Courts must prioritise the use of these centres,” said Telangana High Court judge Moushumi Bhattacharya. RR Bar Association president Kondal Reddy sought a six-month transition period for digitisation and urged the judicial authorities to address infrastructure issues, including parking facilities for advocates.
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