Today, On 7th December, Gujarat made history by becoming the first state in India to broadcast court proceedings live on YouTube, as announced by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and public access to the judicial system. By leveraging technology, the state seeks to ensure greater accountability and awareness among citizens.
Gandhinagar: Gujarat has become the first state to broadcast live court proceedings on YouTube, as announced in an official release on Saturday.
The release also stated that the state judiciary has embraced virtual courts, digital portals, and paperless e-filing systems. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel noted that these initiatives, introduced at Lokaparna and Khatamuhurta, will enhance the efficiency of the justice system.
He emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has prioritized digital infrastructure to promote transparent and effective governance, highlighting the Gujarat High Court as a leading example in this area.
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On Saturday, Chief Minister Patel and Supreme Court Justice Suryakant launched several projects aimed at strengthening the state’s judicial infrastructure at the Gujarat High Court.
The event was also attended by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice Sunita Aggarwal and Law Minister Rishikesh Patel. Chief Minister Patel announced that various projects worth Rs133 crore have been inaugurated at the Gujarat High Court.
The Chief Minister reflected on the history of the Gujarat High Court, stating that it began at Akashvani Bhawan, Navrangpura, when Gujarat became a separate state in 1960.
He noted the gradual progress the state has made in providing modern facilities, with the current state-of-the-art facility operating at Sola. He reiterated the government’s commitment to providing advanced facilities for judges and court staff, including the construction of new buildings and housing.
Patel emphasized the importance of law and order in good governance, stating,
“Judiciary, executive, and legislature are the pillars of democracy and good governance.”
He stressed that effective coordination among these three branches is essential for maintaining good governance and democracy. The Chief Minister also expressed the state government’s commitment to ensuring that the judiciary receives adequate resources, as reflected in the law department’s budget allocation, which increased from Rs.1,698 crore in 2021-22 to Rs,2,586 crore in 2024-25.
Supreme Court Justice Suryakant stated that a robust judicial system is vital for national development.
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He highlighted the necessity for strong judicial infrastructure and the effective use of technology. Chief Justice Sunita Aggarwal remarked that improved infrastructure facilitates a faster and more efficient judicial process. She noted that many new projects have been initiated due to the positive approach of the state government.
Justice Biren Vaishnav shared that the Chief Minister would ensure the provision of essential infrastructure to strengthen the state’s judiciary. The launch event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Gujarat High Court Judges, former Chief Justices from various states, and members of the Bar Council.