Rs 7,210 crore allocated for e-courts project to make judiciary paperless: Union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Union minister of state for law and justice and parliamentary affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal said on Monday that the Centre has allocated Rs7,210 crore for the e-courts project aimed at making judicial functioning paperless across the country.Addressing a lecture on "technological developments in the judicial system" organised by Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad (Devgiri province) and Manikchand Pahade Law College, Meghwal said that while artificial intelligence (AI) poses challenges, it must be seen as an opportunity rather than a threat."AI will not reduce opportunities but will change the nature of work," the minister said, adding that the govt has already initiated steps to modernise court processes through digitisation.He said e-courts project was being implemented to gradually eliminate paper-based functioning in courts. "E-filing systems have been introduced in the judicial system, and due to ongoing work in district courts and high courts, litigants are now able to access information related to their cases even on mobile phones," Meghwal said.He added that the judiciary was steadily moving towards a more paperless system, expected to improve accessibility for citizens.Speaking on the broader impact of technological advancements, Meghwal said that historically, every major technological shift had faced resistance initially but was eventually accepted by society. He referred to industrial revolutions to underline his point."During the 17th century, there was opposition to mechanisation. Later on, when electricity was discovered, concerns were raised about the future of traditional occupations. Similarly, the advent of computers led to fears of job losses," he said."Now, with AI, similar apprehensions are being expressed. Though it may appear challenging, there is no alternative but to adapt to these changes and convert them into opportunities," he added.Among those present on the dais were advocate Shrikant Advant, Sangeeta Bagul, advocate Kalpalata Bharswadkar and Dr Aparna Kottapalle.