Lower courts set to shift to Merces complex in stages

PANAJI

The state-of-the-art District Court complex in Merces, boasting advanced features, became a reality after 15 years. However, the commissioning process is expected to proceed with caution, as court officials want to avoid the mistakes made during the previous shift to private premises “Spaces” building at Patto-Panaji which led to logistical issues.

“In 2015 when some lower Courts shifted to Spaces premises, a number of files were mixed up or misplaced in transit. They were eventually retrieved but such mismanagement is not something we want to repeat this time,” said a Court official, speaking to The Goan.

This cautious approach means that lower courts will shift to the Merces complex in carefully planned stages.

With only minor works pending, the facility is unlikely to be commissioned until after Diwali.

“We have not finalized the precise order but District & Sessions Court operations are likely to move first, followed by other courts including the JMFC. The process is likely during this short vacation time, however, after the Diwali festival,” the source added.

The State government acquired a 20,091 square metre plot way back in 2009 and two years later, the foundation stone for the complex was laid by then Chief Justice of the High Court of Bombay Justice Swatanter Kumar on September 2, 2011. 

The complex is equipped with virtual courtrooms, digital case management systems, e-filing facilities and an E-Sewa Kendra. The complex is also designed to be fully accessible for persons with disabilities (PwDs) with ramps, braille signage and accessible washrooms in place. 

Other facilities include a vulnerable witness room, witness protection rooms, exclusive spaces for Lok Adalats and mediation proceedings, as well as a medical clinic with an on-site medical team. The complex also offers conveniences such as ATMs from three banks, stationary and photocopying rooms, barracks for police personnel, a crèche for children of litigants and staff, and a multipurpose hall with a capacity of 300 people, fully equipped for legal workshops and seminars.

Besides the facility to accommodate litigants, members of the bar, public prosecutors and staff, it also has parking space for 326 vehicles and comfortable waiting areas. Each courtroom can hold 30 litigants and 24 members of the bar. The complex was inaugurated by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud on October 19.