Gujarat DGP Gives Testimony in Kutch Court via Video Conferencing from Gandhinagar
In a landmark step towards digital transformation in the judicial process, Gujarat Director General of Police (DGP) Dr. K. L. N. Rao appeared before a court in Kutch-Gandhidham through video conferencing from Gandhinagar, setting an inspiring example of how technology can save time, fuel, and public resources.
The Gujarat Police and judiciary have jointly introduced advanced “Formal Witness Deposition Centre” facilities to enable witnesses, police personnel, and prisoners to participate in court proceedings through video conferencing. The initiative aims to reduce unnecessary travel, speed up judicial procedures, and improve administrative efficiency.
Dr. Rao used this facility while recording his testimony in connection with an Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) case from 2021, where prosecution sanction was granted by him. Since the hearing was being conducted in a court in Kutch-Gandhidham, the DGP appeared online from the Gandhinagar District Court’s video conferencing centre instead of undertaking a long-distance journey to Kutch.
The initiative significantly reduces travel-related hardships for officials and witnesses, while also ensuring substantial savings in fuel and public expenditure. It further minimizes delays in court proceedings caused by the physical absence of witnesses or officers, thereby helping expedite the judicial process.
Officials stated that the system is especially beneficial for police personnel, who can now devote more time to maintaining law and order rather than spending hours travelling for court appearances. The facility also proves highly useful in handling undertrial prisoners lodged in jails, as it reduces the logistical burden, security risks, and expenses involved in transporting inmates to courts.
By personally adopting the digital system, Dr. K. L. N. Rao conveyed a strong message about the importance of embracing technology in governance and public administration. He appealed to all police officers, staff members, and citizens across the state to make maximum use of the video conferencing facilities, which help conserve time, energy, and valuable national resources like fuel.
