Police launch ‘Virtual Witness Room’ to enable easy depositions in court cases
The Hindu
Greater Chennai Police launches virtual witness room with VC studio for remote deposition in court cases, enhancing efficiency.
For the first time, a pilot ‘virtual witness room’ with video conferencing (VC) studio facilities was launched by the Greater Chennai Police (GCP) to enable easy deposition by investigation officers in court cases.
They will be able to provide evidence in judicial proceedings across the State without having to travel long distances. The facility was inaugurated by Additional Commissioner of Police, Headquarters, Vijendra Bidari in the office of the Joint Commissioner (East Zone) P. Vijayakumar on Thursday.
The newly established facility is carefully designed and equipped with high-definition VC equipment, audio-video recording and archiving systems, document visualiser for presenting exhibits and records, and soundproofing for privacy and confidentiality.
A senior police officer said Sections 254(1) to (3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which authorised the recording of prosecution evidence, especially by public servants through audio-video electronic means from designated locations. The Madras High Court has already directed all courts in Tamil Nadu to accept deposition of investigating officers through VC from designated witness rooms in the pilot locations.
The inauguration of this facility is seen as a significant leap forward in digitising and modernising the police-judicial interface. It is expected to facilitate faster trials and enhance the productivity of police personnel by reducing travel time and administrative process, the police officer said.
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