The Kerala Budget 2024 announces a significant investment of ₹44.14 crore towards judicial infrastructure, marking a pivotal step in enhancing legal services in the state. Highlighting this allocation, plans are underway for the development of a judicial City and a state-of-the-art High Court complex in Kalamassery, Ernakulam, aimed at centralizing and streamlining judicial processes.
Kerala: In a significant move to change the judicial infrastructure and modernization in Kerala, Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal unveiled the state budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 on January 5, 2024. The budget, presented in the state assembly, allocate substantial funds for the judiciary, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing legal infrastructure and services.
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A notable allocation of ₹44.14 crores has been designated for various judicial department activities. This includes a strategic investment of ₹3.30 crores specifically aimed at modernizing the High Court and subordinate courts through advanced Information Communication Technology (ICT) solutions.
In a landmark decision, the budget outlines plans for the creation of an expansive ‘Judicial City’ in Kalamassery, Ernakulam. This initiative, started from discussions between Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Chief Justice A.J. Desai, envisions a new High Court complex along with associated judicial offices, setting a new precedent for judicial infrastructure in the state.
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With an allocation of ₹15.04 crores, the budget focuses on the security enhancement of court premises to foster a safer and more efficient working environment. This fund will also support the modernization efforts of the High Court, subordinate courts, and the Kerala Judicial Academy, ensuring a robust framework for judicial operations.
The budget allocations of ₹18 crores as the state’s contribution towards the basic infrastructure development of the judiciary. Additionally, an anticipated central share of ₹27 crores is expected to further increase the infrastructural development of the judiciary in Kerala, showcasing a collaborative effort between the state and central government to enhance judicial services.
This budget reflects the Kerala government’s dedication to strengthening the judiciary’s foundation, modernizing legal processes, and ensuring a secure and efficient environment for the administration of justice. Through these strategic investments, the state aims to significantly improve the judicial landscape, benefiting not only legal professionals but also the citizens of Kerala.
