Supreme Court Embraces Smart Banking With First PSU Automated Locker Facility

Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant on Tuesday inaugurated a 24x7 automated locker facility installed by Bank of Maharashtra inside the Supreme Court premises, marking a shift from conventional, manually operated lockers to technology-led secure storage.

The facility is designed to give eligible judges, lawyers, court staff and other users round-the-clock access, an important advantage in a court environment where working hours can extend beyond conventional banking schedules. Keeping valuables within the court complex can also reduce the need to carry belongings through a working day or leave them elsewhere.

Access is built around a three-layer authentication system comprising facial recognition, card authentication and PIN verification. After successful authentication, a robotic mechanism automatically retrieves the designated locker and delivers it to a private cabin. This “locker comes to you” model reduces manual handling while providing users with greater privacy during access.

The automated lockers use Japanese robotics and precision engineering, according to information released about the facility. The system is intended to make locker access as simple as using an ATM, while combining automation, controlled access and confidentiality.

The launch is particularly significant for Bank of Maharashtra because the lender says this is the first automated locker facility introduced by a public sector bank in India. It gives the bank an opportunity to demonstrate how a state-owned lender can combine institutional trust with technology and customer-focused services.

For India’s public-sector banking sector, the initiative is a visible example of how automation can transform traditional services. Instead of simply digitising transactions, the facility automates a physical banking process itself, potentially setting a benchmark for future self-service solutions.

The initiative also aligns with the emphasis on secure electronic locker operations. The Supreme Court has previously stressed due diligence, access records, protection against hacking and safeguards for customers’ biometric and personal data.

By bringing 24x7 availability, multi-factor authentication, robotics and private access together at the country’s apex court, the facility underscores a move towards faster, safer and more convenient banking services.