Bandipora, Apr 13 (JKNS): Mr. Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, Judge of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Administrative Judge for District Bandipora, on Monday undertook a comprehensive day-long inspection and review of judicial infrastructure in the district, directing time-bound measures for operationalising the newly constructed court complex and strengthening justice delivery at the grassroots level.
His Lordship conducted an Administrative Inspection of the Existing Court Complex, Bandipora, proceeded thereafter to the newly constructed District Court Complex at Kaloosa, Bandipora, for a formal programme and a thorough physical inspection of the new premises, and held a structured sequence of back-to-back meetings with Judicial Officers, the District Administration, the Executing Agency, and the Bar Association, addressing the full range of concerns relating to the present functioning and future development of the courts in the district.
Upon His Lordship’s arrival at the Existing Court Complex, Bandipora, a formal reception was accorded by Ms. Jeema Bashir, Principal District & Sessions Judge, Bandipora; Mr. Mir Wajahat, Additional District & Sessions Judge (Designated Special Court under the NIA Act), Bandipora; Mr. Iqbal Akhoon, Chief Judicial Magistrate, Bandipora; Mr. Amandeep Singh, Munsiff, Bandipora; Ms. Indu Kanwal Chib, JKAS, Deputy Commissioner, Bandipora; Mr. Ajaz Ahmad Zargar, JKPS, Senior Superintendent of Police, Bandipora; and Mr. Sofi Feroz Ahmad, President, Bar Association, Bandipora, besides other Judicial Officers, members of the Bar, and officers of the civil and police administration.
His Lordship conducted a detailed inspection of courtrooms, record rooms, and allied facilities, taking direct note of infrastructure, record management, and working conditions. He also interacted with Judicial Officers and staff to assess on-ground realities.
Following this, His Lordship proceeded to the New District Court Complex at Kaloosa, Bandipora, where a formal programme was held. Mr. Mir Wajahat conducted the proceedings and highlighted His Lordship’s distinguished professional journey spanning over three decades at the Bar and subsequent elevation to the Bench.
Ms. Indu Kanwal Chib, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, delivered the welcome address, appreciating the development of judicial infrastructure and assuring full administrative support for effective court functioning. She also highlighted the importance of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
Mr. Sofi Feroz Ahmad, President, Bar Association Bandipora, placed key demands including improved facilities for litigants and lawyers, full-time functioning of courts, and establishment of a Consumer Court in the district.
Addressing the gathering, Justice Nargal emphasised the foundational role of District Judiciary in the justice system, stating that true justice begins at the grassroots level. He underscored that district courts are not the lowest tier but the foundation upon which the entire judicial structure rests.
He appreciated the construction of the new court complex but expressed concern over delays in making it fully operational. His Lordship directed that the shifting process be completed within one week and all pending requirements be addressed on priority.
Highlighting the role of technology, His Lordship stressed the need for digital integration, including e-filing, video conferencing, and online systems, particularly in geographically challenging regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
He also acknowledged the role of the Bar and Judicial Officers, emphasising professionalism, preparedness, and quality justice delivery.
Subsequently, His Lordship conducted a detailed inspection of the new complex, reviewing courtrooms, chambers, Bar rooms, and facilities, and issued directions for both immediate and phased improvements with clear timelines.
A series of structured meetings were held with Judicial Officers, the District Administration, executing agencies, and members of the Bar to address coordination gaps and institutional requirements. Key issues such as shifting of the complex, basic amenities, and inter-agency coordination were taken up on priority.
The visit concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Ms. Jeema Bashir, Principal District & Sessions Judge, Bandipora, expressing gratitude for the guidance and directions provided by His Lordship.
The visit marked a significant step towards strengthening judicial infrastructure and ensuring timely and effective justice delivery in Bandipora. (JKNS)
