Sikkim has become the first state in India to achieve a fully paperless judiciary, marking a major milestone in the country’s digital governance journey. The announcement was made by Surya Kant during a national conclave held in Gangtok, highlighting the judiciary’s shift towards technology-driven justice delivery.
The transformation eliminates the need for physical paperwork in court proceedings, enabling processes such as e-filing, digital documentation, and online access to judgments. Led by the High Court of Sikkim, this initiative sets a benchmark for other states to modernise their judicial systems.
A key principle behind this reform is the idea that “petitions must move, not people.” With digital systems in place, citizens can now file cases, track progress, and attend hearings remotely, significantly improving access to justice—especially in geographically challenging regions.
The transition has been supported by initiatives like the e-Courts Mission Mode Project, along with AI-based tools such as SUPACE and SUVAS, which assist in legal research and translation. Virtual hearings and online case management systems have further strengthened efficiency and transparency.
Overall, Sikkim’s paperless judiciary model represents a major step toward faster, more accessible, and cost-effective justice delivery in India, particularly benefiting people in remote and underserved areas.
