Justice Geeta Mittal Calls for Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres in All Courts

Justice Geeta Mittal , Chairperson of the Supreme Court-appointed Vulnerable Witness Committee , has stressed that the justice system must prevent re-traumatisation of sexual-offence survivors, children, and threatened witnesses when they attend court proceedings. She called for the establishment of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres (VWDCs) in all courts to ensure testimony is recorded in a safe , fear-free , and dignified environment. Speaking at a judicial training programme in Guntur, she noted that such facilities are now a key part of judicial reforms aimed at making courts more responsive to the needs of sensitive witnesses.

Justice Mittal explained that VWDCs should include separate waiting areas , child-friendly rooms with toys and books, and video-conferencing facilities so witnesses are not forced to face the accused directly. She recommended separate entry and exit routes , installation of screens or partitions inside courtrooms, and permission for a parent or counsellor to remain present during testimony. Courts in some cities have already begun creating such protected spaces with audio-visual links, showing that the model is practical and capable of reducing stress for vulnerable witnesses.

Emphasising privacy and confidentiality , she directed that identifying details such as names, addresses, or schools must never be disclosed in open court or records accessible to the public. She also cautioned lawyers against intimidating or inappropriate questioning during cross-examination, stating that courtroom conduct must not cause additional distress. At the same time, she advised judicial officers to maintain balance so that protective procedures do not undermine the accused’s right to a fair trial , reflecting existing judicial guidelines.

Justice Mittal further observed that VWDCs should not be limited to criminal trials alone but extended to civil disputes , family cases , custody matters , and proceedings before juvenile justice boards . She urged courts to use simple language during examination of witnesses and to engage interpreters or sign-language experts whenever required. Guidelines framed on the basis of international standards and judicial precedents, she said, must be followed by police , doctors , and magistrates to ensure uniform and humane treatment of vulnerable witnesses throughout the justice process.