Mentality reform needed alongside technology in justice system: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said that alongside technological advancement, a change in mindset is essential to ensure efficiency and fairness in the justice system.

He made the remarks while inaugurating the e-bail bond system at the Bogura District Court on Monday (April 20).

The digital service was also launched simultaneously in Jhenaidah, Jashore, Magura, Rajshahi, Natore and Kushtia districts.

The Prime Minister said the government aims to build a country where equal justice is ensured for all—regardless of position or status. “Justice is not a matter of mercy; it is a constitutional right of every citizen,” he said.

The e-bail bond system allows bail orders issued by courts to be transmitted electronically to prisons, enabling immediate processing of release after judicial approval.

Officials said the initiative is expected to reduce delays and harassment faced by litigants.

He added that the system will be integrated in phases with the police Criminal Data Management System (CDMS), court case management systems and the National ID verification platform to further modernise the judiciary.

Tarique Rahman also alleged that in the past, fabricated cases, fake warrants and delays in withdrawal of warrants were used to harass political opponents, saying digitalisation would help reduce such irregularities.

He stressed that courts should be places of justice, not harassment, adding that strengthening public trust in the judiciary would help reduce social violence.

Highlighting procedural delays, he said that even after bail is granted, paperwork delays often postpone release for several days, raising questions about timely justice.

Referring to his own imprisonment during the 1/11 political period, he said many poor and helpless individuals remain deprived of legal support and suffer prolonged detention, urging the Law Ministry to take effective measures.

The event was chaired by Law Minister Md. Asaduzzaman. Law Secretary Liakat Ali MOllah and other officials also spoke at the programme, which was attended by Zubaida Rahman and local lawmakers.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the newly constructed Bogura District Lawyers’ Association building and provided financial assistance for its library and mosque development.