Gujarat has achieved a significant milestone in the judicial domain by becoming the first state in India to livestream its court proceedings on YouTube. This groundbreaking initiative was inaugurated under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, aligning with the state’s commitment to transparency and accessibility in the judicial system.
The Gujarat High Court began live streaming its proceedings on YouTube in 2021 as a pilot project, a move that has since gained substantial traction and support. By December 2024, the state extended this initiative to lower courts, setting an example for other states to follow. As of now, multiple courts in Gujarat, including those at the district level, have embraced live streaming, offering citizens an unprecedented opportunity to witness legal processes firsthand.
A Step Towards Open Justice
Chief Minister Patel emphasized that this initiative represents a pivotal step in democratizing the judicial process. It allows the public to observe court proceedings without physical presence, fostering a sense of accountability and trust in the judiciary. The move also aligns with the Supreme Court of India’s endorsement of live streaming for significant cases, as seen in past hearings involving constitutional matters.
Legal experts have applauded this decision for promoting judicial awareness and transparency. However, concerns about privacy and data security remain topics of debate, particularly in sensitive cases. The Gujarat judiciary has assured that adequate safeguards are in place to address these challenges, ensuring that livestreaming benefits the public without compromising legal integrity.
A Model for Other States
As India progresses towards digital transformation, Gujarat’s initiative is expected to inspire other states to adopt similar measures. The availability of real-time proceedings online could significantly reduce misinformation and help educate citizens about the legal process, making justice more inclusive and participatory.
Source: Web Team, C6N
