Efficiency, Integrity Key To Judiciary's Strength: Chhattisgarh HC Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha

The remarks were made during a one-day Divisional Judicial Seminar organised by the Chhattisgarh State Judicial Academy at the District Court, Durg, for judicial officers of the Durg Division.

The seminar was attended by 92 judicial officers from five civil districts of the division. Justice Rajani Dubey and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal, Judges of the High Court of Chhattisgarh, were also present.

During the inaugural session, the Chief Justice highlighted the significance of the newly enacted criminal laws, describing them as a step towards modernisation of the criminal justice system through incorporation of technological advancements and a more victim-centric approach. Judicial officers were encouraged to develop a clear and practical understanding of these statutes for effective implementation.

Referring to issues discussed during the seminar, the Chief Justice noted that the themes reflected day-to-day challenges faced by trial courts. In relation to cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, he emphasised the need for adopting case management techniques to ensure speedy disposal while maintaining procedural fairness.

He also highlighted the growing importance of electronic evidence and referred to the concept of e-Sakshya, particularly with respect to admissibility of electronic records under the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. Judicial officers were advised to remain conversant with statutory requirements relating to digital evidence.

A publication titled “Mediation 2.0 IAISAGR – Mediation Strategy Model for Durg” was also released during the seminar.

The event was attended by the Registrar General, registry officers, and judicial officers from Durg, Balod, Bemetara, Kawardha and Rajnandgaon. The welcome address was delivered by the Principal District and Sessions Judge, Durg, followed by an introductory address by the Director of the Chhattisgarh Judicial Academy. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the 1st District and Additional Sessions Judge, Durg.

Participants also made presentations on various legal topics, including:

• competency of courts under Order VII Rule 10 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 and rejection of plaint under Order VII Rule 11;
• strategies for expediting execution proceedings;
• disposal of cases under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act;
• examination of accused under Section 351 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita;
• and admissibility of electronic evidence under Section 63 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.