Virtual Court Hearings: 20,938 People Granted Bail in 10 Days

A total of 20,938 people were bailed out after their cases were considered by virtual courts across the country in 10 days from Thursday. 

Hearing on 33,287 bail petitions were held virtually in 10 days since May 11, said Md Saifur Rahman, special officer of Bangladesh Supreme Court.

On May 11, one person secured bail, 144 on May 12, after hearing of 220 bail petitions, while 4,484 on May 20, following hearing of 7,631 bail petitions.

In addition, on May 28, 1,477 people secured bail after hearing 3,082 petitions.

The operation of the Court remained suspended since 26 March but the videoconference proceedings began on 11 May during the general holidays in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

On 10 May, the High Court formed three benches for the hearing of urgent cases practically on holidays and ordered the subordinate court concerned to hear cases relating to emergency bail.

An ordinance was promulgated that day allowing courts to run trial proceedings through videoconference and other digital facilities. President Abdul Hamid promulgated the ordinance.

Later, the Ministry of Government, Justice, and Parliamentary Relations released a notification claiming that it would take place instantly.

On 7 May, the Cabinet approved the draft Ordinance to pave the way for courts to hold hearings by videoconferencing and other interactive means.

Source: UNB