Monday, August 22 2005 12:07 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Hyderabad: The Centre was considering introduction of Local Courts in rural areas to ensure speedy delivery of justice with simplified procedures, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said today (August 22, 2005).

"These local courts will be an integral part of the judiciary at the lowest level and will help in delivering cost-effective and speedy justice," Singh said after inaugurating a national seminar on `Press and Nation' organised by 'Prajasakti', a Telugu daily of the CPI (M).

The Prime Minister said his government was committed to bringing down the pendency in courts and to reduce the time taken in deciding the cases.

"I am happy to say that the Chief Justice of India and senior judges are very supportive of a range of reforms in our judicial system," he said.

Stating that the UPA government was committed to reforms in the government, police and judiciary, Singh said, "Our police and security forces are doing a valiant job in preserving law and order. However, mistakes are sometimes made We have to ensure that our police machinery functions in a humane and just manner and with respect for human rights."