PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF E GOVERNANCE IMPLEMENTATION IN THE DISTRICT JUDICIARIES OF NORTHEAST INDIA

Abstract

The Indian judiciary is undergoing a rapid digital transformation under the e-Courts Mission Mode Project (MMP), aimed at improving transparency, accessibility, and efficiency in court processes. While national implementation has progressed in different stages Phase I (2007–2015) focused on infrastructure, Phase II expanded citizen services, and the ongoing Phase III (2023–2027) targets fully digital, paperless courts. The Northeastern region of India faces distinct challenges due to its geographic, infrastructural, and linguistic realities. This study adopts a mixed-method approach to assess e-governance adoption in the district judiciary of Northeast India, combining quantitative survey data from 105 litigants and 63 court officials with qualitative insights from open-ended responses. Findings reveal high awareness and positive perceptions of e-governance among both groups, with reported benefits including reduced case processing times, improved access to information, and convenience through virtual hearings. However, technical glitches, inadequate infrastructure, language barriers, and limited digital literacy impede optimal usage. Court officials reported significant time savings and workflow improvements, though reliance on paper processes and inconsistent security practices persist. The study highlights the need for localized language support, targeted capacity building, enhanced infrastructure, and robust cybersecurity frameworks to ensure that e-Courts fulfill their promise of inclusive and efficient justice delivery in the Northeastern region of India.