Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday inaugurated the state-of-the-art Kamrup District Court Complex at Amingaon, underscoring the need for a faster and more efficient judicial system to ensure a robust democracy. Addressing the gathering at the formal opening of the ₹52.25 crore facility, Sarma declared that justice delayed continues to undermine both victims and the accused. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” the Chief Minister said, calling for collective and innovative steps to strengthen the justice delivery mechanism in Assam. “The faster justice is served, the stronger our democracy becomes,” he asserted.Built over an area of 13,303 square metres, the newly inaugurated court complex boasts 14 modern courtrooms, along with chambers for judges and stenographers, administrative blocks, a conference hall, a digital library, and an audio-visual room. It also features an e-Seva Kendra, Legal Aid Defence Counsel office, and specially designed lock-ups for male, female, and third-gender detainees. Importantly, a separate witness room has been set up to provide a secure and private space for sensitive testimonies.
Sarma used the occasion to reflect on Assam’s efforts in improving judicial outcomes. He noted that while the state’s conviction rate was a mere 5% in 2021, it has increased to 26% due to improved case registration, policing, and trials. However, he admitted this still falls short of the national average of 65%, and more needs to be done.He urged the judiciary and legal professionals to adopt emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence, to clear the mounting backlog of cases and enhance judicial productivity. “AI can play a major role in quick decision-making, documentation, and streamlining routine processes,” he added.The Chief Minister also revealed that the state government is in the process of recruiting more public prosecutors to support the prosecution system. He called on the Gauhati High Court and the National Judicial Academy to initiate structured training programmes for young lawyers, enabling faster disposal of cases.
Sarma further highlighted that Assam has witnessed a 60% drop in crime registration over the past four years, which he attributed to stringent reforms and the enactment of three new criminal laws. “These laws will reshape the entire legal landscape of our state and ensure timely justice for all,” he said.He also informed that construction of the new Gauhati High Court building in North Guwahati is likely to commence within the next year.