Virtual court proceedings initiated for militants and high-risk criminals in the digital realm.
In a groundbreaking development for the Bangladeshi judiciary, the Dhaka Chief Metropolitan Magistrate's Court has introduced virtual court hearings for militants, dangerous criminals, and politically charged offenders. This innovative approach, primarily conducted through video conferencing technology, allows accused individuals to participate in court proceedings remotely from their jail facilities [1].
Enhanced Security, Improved Efficiency, and Cost Savings
This virtual hearing system offers several key benefits. By avoiding physical transportation of high-risk defendants, the risk of escapes, attacks, or violence inside court premises is significantly reduced [2]. This initiative also reduces delays caused by logistical issues such as transport and security arrangements, helping the court handle cases faster and reduce backlog [3].
Moreover, remote hearings cut down expenses related to security deployment, transportation, and court infrastructure use, resulting in significant cost savings [3]. Virtual sessions minimize exposure of judges, lawyers, court staff, and the public to potential threats or unrest from such sensitive cases [2].
A Step Towards Modernisation
This approach builds on the digitalization efforts seen in Bangladesh's judiciary, particularly accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. While attempts at virtual courts have so far been largely in urban areas, they show promise in addressing chronic case backlogs and improving judicial outcomes [4].
Court No. 28 of the Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate's Court has been equipped as a fully functional digital courtroom to facilitate virtual hearings [5]. The overall initiative reflects a nationwide push to modernize the judiciary using video conferencing to safeguard all stakeholders during trials involving dangerous or politically sensitive defendants.
A Global Trend
This virtual court concept aligns with global trends to leverage technology in judicial processes to ensure accessibility, safety, and efficiency. The presence of these accused individuals in court often draws strong public reactions, with citizens attempting to confront them at court premises [6]. By conducting trials virtually, these confrontations can be avoided, ensuring a safer environment for all involved.
The development was confirmed by Additional Public Prosecutor Mohammad Shamsuddoha Suman [7]. The order, issued by Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Mustafizur Rahman on August 6, 2023, applies to numerous high-profile and sensitive cases pending in various courts [8]. This move is expected to significantly reduce the risks associated with transporting high-profile detainees and streamline court proceedings, improving efficiency [9].
Sources:
- Bangladesh Tribune
- Dhaka Tribune
- The Daily Star
- The Financial Express
- New Age
- Bangla Tribune
- The Independent
- The Dhaka Courier
- The Business Standard
In line with global trends, this virtual court concept adopted in Bangladesh signifies a step towards modernizing the judiciary, leveraging technology for accessibility, safety, and efficiency. The implementation of virtual court hearings reduces the risks associated with transporting high-profile detainees and streamlines court proceedings, improving efficiency [9]. Additionally, by conducting trials virtually, potential confrontations between the public and high-risk defendants can be avoided, ensuring a safer environment for all involved [6].
