In a significant move towards digitization and enhancing access to justice, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has introduced two new software modules. The Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice Ravi Shanker Jha, e-launched these modules, which are aimed at streamlining the process of traffic challan disposal in Chandigarh and facilitating the Right to Information (RTI) requests.
The development of these modules was overseen by Justice Lisa Gill, chairperson of the Computer Committee, along with committee members Justice Arun Monga, Justice Anoop Chitkara, Justice Alka Sarin, Justice Vinod S Bhardwaj, and Justice Vikram Aggarwal.
One of the modules is dedicated to the virtual court for traffic challans in Chandigarh. As per the official press note, this module allows stakeholders to search for their traffic challans using various parameters such as vehicle number, registered mobile numbers, owner name, or case number. Moreover, fines can be paid digitally, with electronic payment receipts generated instantly. This initiative is expected to
“reduce footfall in courts drastically”
and is seen as a progressive step towards improving
“access, efficiency, and fairness in the disposal of traffic challans.”
The second module is the RTI portal, designed to simplify the process of applying and seeking information under the Right to Information Act. This digital platform is available not only for the High Court but also for District Courts in Punjab, Haryana, and UT Chandigarh. Through this portal, applicants can apply, monitor the status of their requests, and even file appeals before the appellate authority under the RTI Act.
The portal also supports electronic payment methods, thereby reducing the reliance on paper. The introduction of this portal is anticipated to serve as a bridge between the courts and the applicants, enabling them to exercise their rights more effectively and seek redress for their grievances.
In conclusion, the launch of these software modules underscores the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s commitment to ensuring that justice is accessible to every citizen. These digital tools are expected to play a pivotal role in bringing the judicial system closer to the common man.
