Patna High Court Chief Justice Advocates for Courtroom Cleanliness and Announces Witness Protection Initiative
In a significant address at a felicitation ceremony, the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, Sangam Kumar Sahoo, underscored the critical importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and cleanliness within courtrooms across Bihar. The event, organized by the Lawyers’ Association of the Patna High Court, was held at the L N Mishra Institute of Economic Development and Social Change.
Call for Clean and Hygienic Court Environments
Chief Justice Sahoo articulated a powerful message, stating, "A clean court reflects a clear mindset." He made a direct appeal to the legal community, urging advocates to actively cooperate and provide suggestions to ensure that courtrooms and corridors remain clean and hygienic. This initiative aims to foster a more conducive environment for the administration of justice, promoting both physical well-being and mental clarity among all court participants.
Felicitation of Judiciary Members
The function served to honor Chief Justice Sahoo along with several other distinguished judges. The list of honorees included Justices Nani Tagia, Sanjay Kumar Singh, Shailendra Singh, Arun Kumar Jha, Jitendra Kumar, and Justice Ansul. The felicitations were conducted by advocates Uma Shanker and Rajeev Kumar Singh, who hold the positions of President and Secretary General of the Lawyers’ Association, respectively.
Additionally, the event saw the presence of notable legal figures such as Ramakant Sharma, President of the Bihar State Bar Council, and senior counsels Yadu Vansh Giri and Ajay Thakur, all of whom extended their greetings to the judges.
Introduction of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centers
In a major announcement, Chief Justice Sahoo revealed plans for the establishment of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centers (VWDCs) in every district court across Bihar. These specialized centers are designed to provide a safe and secure environment for vulnerable witnesses, including children, survivors of sexual assault, persons with disabilities, and elderly individuals.
Key features of the VWDCs include:
- Technologically equipped rooms to facilitate testimony.
- Implementation of strict safety and security measures.
- Conducive environments that minimize threat and intimidation.
Chief Justice Sahoo elaborated on the importance of these centers, noting, "These VWDCs are functioning under tight safety and security with all conducive environments where vulnerable witnesses can render their oral evidence (depositions) or can testify to an accused without any threat or intimidation."
Backbone of Justice Delivery System
Emphasizing the critical role of witness protection, Chief Justice Sahoo stated, "Ensuring a safe environment for vulnerable witnesses by giving them separate deposition centers is the backbone of the justice delivery system." He further assured that the state government's top leadership has committed to supporting the implementation of VWDCs in each district, highlighting a collaborative effort between the judiciary and the government to enhance access to justice.
This dual focus on courtroom cleanliness and the protection of vulnerable witnesses represents a proactive step towards improving the overall efficiency and fairness of the judicial process in Bihar, aiming to build public trust and ensure that justice is served in a dignified and secure manner.
