The right to access justice, guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution, encompasses the right to access live court proceedings. To imbue greater transparency, inclusivity and foster access to justice, the project of live streaming of court proceedings has been initiated on priority. This will enable access to live court proceedings, including on matters of public interest to citizens, journalists, civil society, academicians and law students on a real-time basis, which was not otherwise possible owing to geographical, logistical or infrastructural issues. Live streaming of court proceedings serves several important purposes:
1. Transparency and Accountability: It allows the public to observe court proceedings firsthand, promoting transparency in the justice system. When people can see how decisions are made and arguments are presented, they gain more confidence in the fairness and integrity of the judicial process.
2. Educational Tool: Live streaming provides an educational opportunity for law students, legal professionals, and the general public to learn about the legal system, courtroom procedures, and legal arguments. It can help demystify the legal process and increase understanding of how the justice system works.
3. Accessibility: Live streaming makes court proceedings accessible to a wider audience, including those who may not be able to attend in person due to geographical, physical, or other constraints. This ensures that justice is not only done but also seen to be done by as many people as possible.
4. Accountability of Participants: Knowing that their actions are being broadcast live to the public can encourage all participants in the courtroom, including judges, attorneys, and witnesses, to behave professionally and adhere to ethical standards.
5. Preservation of Records: Live-streamed court proceedings serve as an official record of the events that transpire in the courtroom. These recordings can be valuable for legal research, appeals, and historical purposes.
Overall, live streaming of court proceedings aligns with principles of openness, fairness, and accountability in the justice system, ultimately enhancing public trust and confidence in the legal process.
