Uttar Pradesh Leads In Implementing ICJS

For the third consecutive year, Uttar Pradesh has achieved the highest entry rate on the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) platform, showcasing the state’s commitment to leveraging technology in the administration of justice. The ICJS platform, a brainchild of the Supreme Court’s e-committee and implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency of the criminal justice system in India.

Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) Platform Overview

• The Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) platform is a revolutionary concept initiated by the Supreme Court’s e-committee and executed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• The platform’s inception involved the preparation of ‘The National Policy and Action Plan,’ a strategic roadmap crafted by the e-committee to integrate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into the Indian Judiciary.
• The primary objective of ICJS is to facilitate seamless data exchange among key components of the criminal justice system, including police, jails, courts, and forensic science labs.

Importance of Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS)

• The significance of the ICJS platform lies in its ability to empower High Courts and subordinate courts with access to crucial metadata related to First Information Reports (FIRs) and charge sheets.
• Police contribute to this system by uploading essential documents, such as FIRs, case diaries, and charge sheets, in PDF format, enabling courts to utilize them effectively.
• The e-Committee is actively involved in standardizing data and metadata, developing validation processes, and establishing a robust technical infrastructure to store and protect electronic records. This comprehensive tool ensures real-time access to all pertinent case information, streamlining the judicial process.

About e-Committee

• The e-Committee was established in response to the pressing need for judicial reform in India. Proposed by Chief Justice R.C. Lahoti, its mandate is to formulate a National Policy that embraces Information and Communication Technology to propel the Indian judiciary into the digital age.
• By embracing technology and communication tools, the justice delivery system becomes more efficient, benefiting all stakeholders involved in the legal process.

Implementation of ICJS

• In the implementation of ICJS, High Courts play a pivotal role. They have the authority to appoint an IPS officer to oversee data integration on the ICJS platform in each state.
• Additionally, High Courts can designate a Nodal Officer responsible for ensuring the inclusion of various state functionaries, such as the Provident Fund Organisation, Forest Department, Town Planning Authorities, Municipal Authorities, Labour Welfare Boards, and Food and Drug Administration, in the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS).

Important Questions Related to Exams

1. What is the primary objective of the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) platform?

a) Enhancing healthcare services
b) Promoting environmental sustainability
c) Streamlining criminal justice processes

2. Who initiated the concept of the ICJS platform?

a) Ministry of Finance
b) Supreme Court’s e-committee
c) Indian Parliament

3. Who proposed the formation of the e-Committee to reform the Indian judicial sector?

a) Chief Justice R.C. Lahoti
b) Prime Minister
c) President of India

Kindly share your responses in the comment section.