Gangtok: Sikkim was declared India’s first paperless state judiciary on Friday, with Chief Justice of India Surya Kant stating that “the Indian legal landscape has undergone a fundamental transformation” and congratulating Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim A Muhamed Mustaque for enabling the state to achieve the distinction.
The declaration was made at the Conclave on Technology and Judicial Education Conference inaugurated at Chintan Bhawan in the presence of Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay.
Surya Kant emphasised that “digital systems are reshaping access to justice,” particularly in regions with difficult terrain, adding that technology now allows cases to move without physical presence and enables citizens to engage with courts more efficiently.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay described the development as “a historic milestone and a matter of pride for the state,” adding that it reflects Sikkim’s commitment to digital governance and judicial reform. He said the initiative would “serve as a model for the rest of the country while remaining inclusive and accessible.”
Attorney General of India R Venkataramani said “access to justice must be reimagined in the digital age,” emphasising the need to move beyond physical access towards meaningful outcomes through technology and institutional reform.
Chief Justice A Muhamed Mustaque said the move represents “a shift from basic digitisation to practical, ground-level transformation,” stressing that technology must deliver tangible benefits to litigants by reducing workload pressures and improving access to justice.
Tashi Rapten Barfungpa, President, Bar Association of Sikkim, High Court and Subordinate Courts, said, “This is a landmark moment for Sikkim. It is a historic step… declaring the High Court as the first paperless judiciary in the country.” He added that initial hesitation among lawyers during the introduction of e-courts gradually eased as efficiency improved. “This initiative is transformative. It enhances transparency and makes the system more accessible,” he said, noting that in a hill state like Sikkim, digital access allows lawyers and litigants to file cases and appear in court remotely.
Senior advocate Jorgay Namka said, “Being declared the first paperless judiciary is a matter of great pride and opportunity for the state,” adding that the transition reflects “a long journey involving cooperation from the judiciary, advocates, and the government.” He said going paperless would help connect remote areas and ensure access to justice for every citizen.
Birendra Gautam, a student of Sikkim National Law University, said, “Becoming the first paperless judiciary sets a strong example… It will save time, reduce procedural hassles, and encourage young law students like us.”
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Roshika Dhungel, an LLM student from Sikkim National Law University, said, “This initiative marks a significant shift towards a more modern and accessible judicial system,” adding that it could reduce delays and improve transparency if implemented effectively.
The declaration places Sikkim at the forefront of India’s efforts to build a more accessible, efficient and technology-driven justice delivery system.
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