Now, cybercrime cases in Haryana under ambit of public utility service

In a significant step to reduce legal disputes and expedite the resolution of cybercrime cases, the Haryana Government has classified cybercrime as a public utility service. This move empowers the Permanent Lok Adalat to adjudicate-related complaints, ensuring quicker settlements at the pre-litigation stage.

Part of ease of living initiative

The inclusion of cybercrime in the list of public utility services would go a long way in fast-tracking the release and de-freezing of the money defrauded through cybercrime, as it would significantly cut down on the lengthy legal process. It is part of the ease of living initiative of the state government. — Sumita Misra, acs, administration of justice department

Conditions apply

Applications can only be moved before the Permanent Lok Adalat for de-freezing/release of money pertaining to the cybercrime provided that FIR has not been registered in such incidents.

The decision is expected to cut down lengthy legal procedures and provide much-needed relief to victims of cyber fraud. However, the provision applies only in cases where no FIR has been registered, allowing applications solely for the de-freezing or release of money involved in cybercrimes.

Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary, Administration of Justice Department, emphasised the importance of this initiative, saying: “The inclusion of cybercrime in the list of public utility services would go a long way in fast-tracking the release and de-freezing of the money defrauded through cybercrime, as it would significantly cut down on the lengthy legal process. It is part of the ease of living initiative of the state government.”

Under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, state governments are authorised to add services to the public utility list in the public interest. The Haryana State Legal Services Authority (HSLSA) had been advocating for this inclusion, citing over 38,000 pending cybercrime complaints as of last year.

Following deliberations with the Superintendent of Police, Cyber (Headquarters), Panchkula, it was concluded that cybercrime should be added to the public utility services category, specifically for “uncontested cases” where no FIR has been lodged. The goal is to address complaints before they escalate into prolonged legal battles.

With this decision, victims of cyber fraud in Haryana can now seek quicker resolution through the Permanent Lok Adalat, avoiding the delays of conventional legal channels.

Haryana Tribune