Chandigarh Introduces Digital Summons and Electronic Warrant System in Major Judicial ReformCourts to serve summons through email, mobile phones and messaging applications under new electronic process rulesDr Kamlesh KaliChandigarh, May 11 — In a major step towards digitisation of the judicial and policing system, the Chandigarh Administration has notified the “Union Territory, Chandigarh Electronic Processes (Issuance, Service and Execution) Rules, 2026,” paving the way for electronic issuance and service of court summons and warrants across the Union Territory. The new rules, issued by the Home Department (Police Branch), have been framed under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, in consultation with the Punjab and Haryana High Court.Under the new framework, courts will now be able to generate and issue summons electronically through digital platforms such as CIS, CCTNS, e-Summons applications and N-STEP systems. Summons may be delivered through disclosed email addresses, mobile numbers and messaging applications in addition to conventional physical delivery methods. The notification states that electronically generated summons bearing the court seal and electronic signature will be treated as legally valid documents. Courts will also have the authority to issue arrest warrants electronically with digital authentication by the Presiding Officer. The administration has established a multi-layered monitoring mechanism under the new system. A State Nodal Agency headed by the Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) has been constituted to supervise implementation and review district-level functioning. At the district level, District Nodal Agencies will monitor the timely service of summons and coordinate with courts, police stations and prosecution authorities. Additionally, a dedicated “Summons Cell” will be created in every district under the supervision of a police officer not below the rank of Sub-Inspector. The cell will maintain detailed records of all summons and warrants, including Aadhaar details, mobile numbers, addresses, mode of service and delivery status. The rules also place strong emphasis on privacy and victim protection. In cases involving offences against women and children, including matters under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Juvenile Justice Act, authorities have been directed to ensure that the identity of victims is not disclosed during the service or execution process. The electronic contact details of victims and witnesses will also remain confidential and inaccessible to accused persons. Legal experts believe the new digital framework could significantly reduce delays in service of summons, improve court efficiency and accelerate disposal of pending criminal cases by integrating courts, police and prosecution agencies on a technology-based platform.
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