Panchthar, April 12 — The Panchthar District Court has begun utilizing virtual platforms routinely for conducting witness testimonies, recording statements, and facilitating legal discussions. This initiative aims to boost accessibility and enhance the effectiveness of judicial processes.
As stated by court authorities, this program is especially advantageous for individuals engaged in cases, as well as witnesses and legal professionals, who cannot attend proceedings in person because of geographical limitations or other impediments.
Gopal Khanal, the court’s information officer, stated that this system not only facilitates access to justice for individuals distant from the courthouse but also reduces time and costs for those seeking services,” he noted. Additionally, he mentioned that virtual proceedings have proven particularly beneficial in speeding up cases that might otherwise be delayed.
Recently, the court enabled virtual testimonies from three women residing in Portugal, Dubai, and Oman, who have raised issues related to polygamy following their husbands’ subsequent marriages while they were employed overseas.
In another instance involving juveniles, two young individuals from a rehabilitation center in Biratnagar participated remotely in legal hearings. Additionally, the court documented testimonies from two witnesses in an official murder case as stated by Pitam Khatiwada, who heads the court’s IT division.
As an additional instance, senior lawyer Khagraj Kattel took part in a property disagreement hearing through a video conference from Ilam.
Khatiwada mentioned that prior to every virtual proceeding, participants receive training on how to utilize the necessary software and get accustomed to the protocols involved. He added, “When they are ready, the testimony, statements, or debates proceed as planned.”
Even though laws permit virtual hearings when physical attendance isn’t possible, these procedures are still uncommon in many district courts. In Panchthar, this program was initiated following Judge Kumar Maskey’s transfer to the courthouse last October.
