Bangladesh’s judiciary entered a new digital chapter on Monday with the launch of the country’s first fully paperless e-family court, an initiative officials say will transform access to justice, reduce delays and curb harassment in family-related legal proceedings.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Jagannath–Sohel Memorial Auditorium of the Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Court, brought together senior government advisers, judicial officials and members of the legal community.
Speaking at the event, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul urged lawyers to fully embrace the digital transition, assuring them that the introduction of e-family courts would not reduce their income but instead expand opportunities and improve efficiency.
Nazrul emphasised the need for continuity beyond the current administration.
“This system must be accepted by all parties,” he said.
“For any future government, it is essential to continue the e-family court initiative so that it does not fade away after its launch.”
He highlighted that victims will be able to file cases free of cost through the digital platform, reducing public suffering, preventing corruption and curbing mismanagement.
He said one of the major causes of prolonged case backlogs is the unavailability of witnesses.
The new system will allow virtual testimony from any location, making it easier for witnesses - including doctors, police officers and magistrates - to participate without delay.
“This will significantly reduce the number of pending cases,” he added.
Nazrul also urged caution in implementing further reforms, warning that excessive restructuring could weaken state institutions. He called on the next elected government to preserve the reforms introduced so far.
Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan described the launch as a milestone for both the judiciary and environmental protection.
“Going paperless will ease the pressure on our courts and also benefit the environment,” she said.
She urged officials not to allow the system to fall into disuse, pointing to examples such as Rajuk’s online building permit system, where digital applications are accepted but many services still cannot be processed online.
Faiz Ahmed Tayyab, special assistant to the chief adviser and responsible for the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, said digitalisation would help legal professionals deliver services more quickly and effectively.
According to court officials, the new e-family court system aims to address long-standing challenges in family litigation, including lengthy proceedings, high expenses, travel barriers, document management problems and overcrowding.
The platform offers fast online services at minimal cost, digital documentation, 24/7 case registration and online scheduling.
Officials said the system is expected to significantly reduce harassment, corruption, costs and delays, while allowing victims - especially women and children - to access services safely from home.
Virtual testimonies from doctors, police and magistrates will also reduce the logistical burdens that often slow proceedings.
With the launch of the e-family court, the judiciary has taken a decisive step into a fully digital era - one that officials hope will make justice more accessible, transparent and efficient for families across the country.
