Nepal’s Special Court Embraces Virtual Hearings in a First
Kathmandu, Nepal – Nepal’s Special Court, a body tasked with handling corruption cases, hastaken a significant step towards modernizing its proceedings by conducting its first-ever virtual hearing. This landmark event marks a departure from traditional courtroom practices and signifies the court’scommitment to adapting to technological advancements.
The virtual hearing, which took place on October 26, 2023, involved a case related tocorruption allegations against a high-ranking government official. The court utilized video conferencing technology, allowing participants, including the accused, lawyers, and judges, to participate remotely. This innovative approach eliminated the need for physical presence in the courtroom, potentially saving time andresources.
The move towards virtual hearings has been met with both praise and caution. Supporters argue that it enhances accessibility and efficiency, particularly for individuals residing in remote areas or facing travel constraints. They also highlight the potential for reduced costs associated withphysical court appearances.
However, critics raise concerns about potential technical glitches, security vulnerabilities, and the possibility of compromising the integrity of the legal process. They emphasize the importance of ensuring a secure and reliable virtual platform to maintain the fairness and transparency of judicial proceedings.
The Special Court’s decision to embrace virtual hearings is atestament to its commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the justice system. This initiative has the potential to significantly impact the way legal proceedings are conducted in Nepal, paving the way for a more efficient and accessible justice system.
The court’s next steps will be crucial in determining the long-term success of virtual hearings.Addressing concerns about security, reliability, and accessibility will be essential to ensure that this innovative approach benefits all stakeholders involved in the legal process.
References:
- विशेष अदालतमा पहिलो पटक ‘भर्चुअल’ सुनुवाइ, Kantipur,October 26, 2023. https://www.kantipur.com/news/2023/10/26/16983297054245400.html
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