Maharashtra Notifies Govt Offices and Banks as Virtual Witness Statement Centers

In a bid to expedite the criminal justice process, the Maharashtra government has designated all government and semi-government offices, including public hospitals and nationalised bank branches, as facilities where witnesses in criminal cases can record statements virtually. This initiative, aimed at ensuring timely justice for victims, allows witnesses to participate in court proceedings via video conferencing from these locations, according to a senior home department official. The move addresses longstanding challenges like travel difficulties for rural witnesses, which often lead to adjournments and delays in hearings.

The notification aligns with the implementation of three new criminal laws that replaced colonial-era statutes last year: the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) in place of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) for the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) for the Indian Evidence Act. These reforms emphasize technology-driven efficiency to deliver swift resolutions. Under Sections 265(3), 266(2), and 308 of the BNSS, witness examinations can now occur through audio-video electronic means at state-notified sites. The home department issued the order in June, expanding access to justice by minimizing logistical barriers that previously forced judges to reschedule cases due to witness unavailability.

Beyond witnesses, the system extends to accused persons on bail and police officials, enabling them to provide statements remotely from these venues. Designated places encompass a wide network: all departmental offices, municipalities, corporations, commissions, tribunals, government-aided institutions, medical colleges, public health centers, and hospitals. Police-related facilities, including those under the Director General of Police, training institutes, academies, forensic labs, state excise offices, and legal services authorities, are included. Consumer courts, charity commissioner offices, the residential commissioner's office, public prosecutor's office, and New Maharashtra Sadan also qualify, along with nationalised bank branches, Zilla Parishad offices, district child welfare committees, and women and child development department offices.

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This infrastructure upgrade ensures comprehensive coverage across Maharashtra, eliminating excuses for non-appearance and fostering a more accountable judicial ecosystem. Officials highlighted provisions for reliable internet, dedicated video conferencing cabins, and oversight by designated authorities at each site. Looking ahead, the model could scale to higher courts, potentially eradicating adjournments caused by witness absences. By leveraging modern technology, Maharashtra is setting a precedent for other states, reinforcing the new laws' goal of victim-centric, time-bound justice in an increasingly digital era.

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