Karnataka HC: Directs E-Notarisation Implementation for Court Filings

• The Karnataka High Court has directed the implementation of e-notarisation for all filings in its High Court and District Courts.
• Justice Suraj Govindaraj issued the order after accepting an electronically notarised compliance affidavit in a cybercrime-related case.
• The approved e-notarisation process involves a live audio-video conference, identity verification, and Aadhaar-based e-KYC for electronic signatures.
• This directive aims to modernize judicial processes and enhance the efficiency of legal documentation in Karnataka.

This landmark decision by the Karnataka High Court, spearheaded by Justice Suraj Govindaraj, marks a significant step towards modernizing judicial processes and enhancing the efficiency of legal documentation within the state.

The Karnataka High Court has issued a significant directive mandating the implementation of electronic notarisation for all court filings. This order specifically instructs the Registrar (Judicial), Registrar General, and Registrar (Computers) to ensure that e-notarisation is adopted for submissions made before both the Karnataka High Court and the various District Courts across the state. This pivotal decision was made by Justice Suraj Govindaraj, who formally accepted a compliance affidavit that had been notarised electronically, thereby setting a precedent for digital documentation. The underlying case involved legal proceedings concerning restrictions placed on a bank account following a cybercrime investigation.

The court's acceptance of the electronically notarised document was informed by a detailed explanation of the process, provided by Advocate Priyanka S Bhat, counsel for IIFL Finance Limited, in a memorandum of facts. This submission outlined a robust procedure for electronic notarisation, beginning with a live audio-video conference involving both the authorized signatory and the notary. During this conference, the affidavit was displayed concurrently on their screens, ensuring transparency and shared understanding.

The notary's role included verifying the signatory's identity and their authority to act on behalf of the company, confirming that the signatory fully understood the contents of the document being signed, and formally recording their voluntary participation in the process. An oath was then administered, affirming that the signatory had verified the affidavit's contents. The signatory subsequently affixed their electronic signature utilizing Aadhaar-based e-KYC, a secure method for identity verification. Finally, the notary completed the process by applying their official seal and electronically signing the affidavit, solidifying its legal validity.

This landmark decision by the Karnataka High Court, spearheaded by Justice Suraj Govindaraj, marks a significant step towards modernizing judicial processes and enhancing the efficiency of legal documentation within the state. The directive for Karnataka HC directs e-notarisation implementation underscores a broader commitment to digital transformation within the judiciary. This move follows earlier indications from Justice Govindaraj, who had previously encouraged advocates to scan and share papers with the court, even suggesting the use of iPads in criminal jurisdiction to streamline proceedings.

The formal acceptance of electronic notarisation, particularly with its reliance on Aadhaar-based e-KYC notarisation Karnataka, is poised to significantly expedite e-notary court filings India, reducing physical paperwork and potentially accelerating case resolutions. This development firmly positions the Karnataka High Court electronic notarisation initiative as a forward-thinking reform, aligning with contemporary technological advancements to improve access to justice and operational efficiency.

Lawyers and compliance officers practicing in Karnataka should note that e-notarisation is now officially directed for implementation and accepted for court filings, streamlining document submission. They should familiarize themselves with the electronic notarisation process, including Aadhaar-based e-KYC, to ensure compliance and efficiency in their legal documentation.

Source: Reporting based on recent legal developments.