Tech Tools for Justice: 71 Computers Delivered to Remote Circuit Courts
As part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the capacity of civil and criminal circuit courts in remote and underprivileged upazilas, a total of 71 desktop computers have been delivered to 40 such courts across 23 districts in Bangladesh. The initiative was carried out on Wednesday, July 2, under the directive of Chief Justice Dr. Syed Refaat Ahmed, according to Supreme Court spokesperson Md. Shafiqul Islam.
In a press release issued by the Supreme Court’s Appellate Division, it was stated that these computers are intended for use in the courtrooms and offices of the designated circuit courts, which are often located in geographically challenging regions. These courts handle both civil and criminal cases and are presided over by judicial officials holding ranks such as Senior Assistant Judge, Senior Judicial Magistrate, Joint District Judge, and Additional District Judge.
“The newly supplied computers will enhance operational efficiency in these courts,” the statement read.
The release also emphasized that in the Chief Justice’s roadmap for judicial reforms, special focus has been placed on modernizing court services and ensuring timely access to justice for marginalized populations. In line with this objective, the Supreme Court has provided the necessary desktop computers to ensure litigants at circuit courts receive prompt and effective judicial services.
Since taking office as the 25th Chief Justice of Bangladesh on August 11, 2023, Justice Dr. Syed Refaat Ahmed has overseen the distribution of 400 desktop computers to district courts and 120 laptops to judicial officers across the country to improve judicial productivity.
According to the press release, as of 2022, there were 43 circuit courts operating in 16 districts — comprising 25 criminal and 18 civil courts. These include criminal courts in locations such as Durgapur, Sandwip, Banshkhali, Patiya, Lama, Maheshkhali, Chakaria, Kutubdia, Hatiya, Zakiganj, and Charfashion, among others. The civil courts are situated in areas including Raozan, Satkania, Fatikchhari, Shahjadpur, Nabinagar, Bajitpur, Koira, and Gobindaganj.
Notably, Chattogram district alone houses seven circuit courts. The origin of these courts dates back to between 1880 and 1885, making them among the earliest judicial institutions in Bangladesh.
This digital uplift aims to reinforce justice delivery mechanisms at the grassroots, aligning with broader judicial reform goals.
