Madhya Pradesh Pioneers E-Technology in Judicial System with New Regulations

Madhya Pradesh introduces groundbreaking rules under BNSS and BNS 2023, enabling digital issuance and service of legal documents. The new regulations authorize the use of electronic channels for communication, aiming to expedite judicial processes and enhance efficiency in the state's legal system.

The Madhya Pradesh government has implemented pioneering regulations under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) and Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023 (BNS), set to digitize the judicial process. These new laws permit the issuance, service, and execution of legal documents via electronic communication channels, signifying a substantial leap forward for the state's legal framework.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated, 'The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to use electronic methods for serving all types of summons. Madhya Pradesh is the first state in the country where e-technology will be used to serve summons and notices in our judicial system, facilitating a faster process.' The Madhya Pradesh Gazette issued on August 13 clarified that these new regulations will be referred to as the Madhya Pradesh Electronic Processes (Issuance, Services and Execution) rules 2024.

The newly defined 'electronic communication' encompasses written, verbal, pictorial, or video content transmitted via electronic means, including devices such as mobile phones and computers. Although the notification does not explicitly mention platforms like email or messaging apps such as WhatsApp, it implies any digital medium that connects parties. Courts in Madhya Pradesh are now empowered to issue legal documents—including summonses, warrants, and notices—electronically, with delivery and service confirmed through digital acknowledgments.

Service confirmation is achieved when, for instance, an email does not bounce back or delivery receipts/read confirmations are obtained for messaging apps. These acknowledgments become a critical component of the service report submitted to the court. All electronically issued documents will bear digital signatures as mandated by the Information Technology Act, 2000, and will be encrypted to deter unauthorized access and maintain the security of the communication.

This new system is supplementary to any existing laws or rules enacted by the High Court of Madhya Pradesh regarding the issuance, service, and execution of judicial processes. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)