Who Really Makes Justice Happen? Unboxing Our Justice System

“Justice No Longer Revolves Around Courts ”

Whenever we think of justice, our imagination takes us to the courtroom — that further revolves around a judge, a lawyer, and verdict. However, in reality, the global justice ecosystem is far broader and goes well beyond just courts and tribunals.

Most people are unaware of the vast public infrastructure, including regulators to magistrates, from ombudsmen to investigating agencies that work silently. Across the globe, these bodies are working everyday to uphold rights, enforce laws, resolve disputes, and maintain accountability for billions of people. Overall, whether in developing or developed nations, this network plays a very important role in ensuring the rule of law and protecting human rights.

But, what’s most concerning is that this structured system still relies heavily on paper-based processes, which isolates it and burdens it with inefficiencies. This problem is too big to ignore and the result is a  universal struggle.

A Growing Backlog: The Scale of the Challenge

Across the world, justice systems are facing striking pressure from rising case backlogs and delays. For example, in England and Wales, the Crown Court backlog reached a record high of over 74,000 open cases by the end of 2024, which is almost double the figure from five years earlier. More than a quarter of these cases have been waiting a year or more to be heard. It has prolonged the distress to victims, witnesses, and defendants

What about India? As of early 2025, over 50 million cases remain pending across Indian courts, with the backlog increasing by nearly 20% between 2020 and 2024. India Justice Report 2025 says that an alarming 61% of High Court cases and 46% of District Court cases have been pending for over three years. But this backlog isn’t confined to the courts alone — delays and inefficiencies are now affecting nearly every part of the justice ecosystem, from regulatory bodies to grievance redressal authorities.

Understanding the Public Justice Ecosystem

Before we truly think of transforming this justice delivery system, it’s important to understand who actually delivers justice in the public domain. Basically, India’s justice and governance system is made up of a range of specialized institutions. So, let’s have a look at the breakdown of their distinct roles and legal mandates.

1. Quasi-Judicial Bodies
   

These are basically the authorities empowered to adjudicate disputes, issue rulings, and impose penalties in specific domains. Although, they do function similar to the traditional courts, 

, their jurisdiction is limited to particular subject areas. And most importantly they often follow simpler procedures. While the structure of justice systems varies by country, the core functions—adjudication, regulation, enforcement, prosecution, administration, and grievance redressal—are universal.

Examples of Quasi-Judicial Bodies:

• National Green Tribunal (NGT)
• Central Information Commission (CIC)
• National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
• Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT)
• National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC)
• Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA)

To understand better, let us consider an example:

Imagine, you run a business, and one of your crucial clients defaults on a large payment. Now, instead of dragging the matter through the long court process, you can approach the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), which is a specialized body that deals specifically with corporate disputes like this.

At NCLT, you submit evidence, present your case, and the decision is made, just like a traditional courtroom. It is not a courtroom but an authority (quasi-judicial body) that works like a court, but is set up to handle specific kinds of cases more efficiently. 

Let us consider another relatable example as a consumer. Suppose there is a dispute over an electricity bill, where would you reach out first? Of course, you’d go to a Consumer Commission or an Electricity Regulatory Commission — both of these are quasi-judicial in nature.

Now, consider a common issue: you’ve bought an apartment, but the builder is delaying possession or making undesired changes without approval. In that particular scenario, instead of fighting a long court battle, you can approach the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). All in all, RERA is designed to protect homebuyers, ensuring developers follow rules and deliver projects as promised.

“In a nutshell, these bodies exist to resolve disputes faster, with more domain-specific expertise, bypassing the delays of the traditional legal system.”

2. Regulatory Bodies

These are also government-established authorities! However, they are responsible for supervising and regulating specific areas related to business and service sectors. These bodies ensure compliance with rules, maintain standards and protect the public interest.

Overall, their main job is regulatory oversight. However, many of them also have quasi-judicial powers, such as settling disputes and penalizing violations, similar to a traditional court.

Examples of Regulatory Bodies:

• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
• Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)
• Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

Have a look at a few simple scenarios:

Let’s say you are an investor dealing with a situation where you feel insecure because of a listed company that hid some critical financial information before launching its IPO. Now, instead of reaching out to a traditional court, the matter can be raised with SEBI. This regulatory body is responsible for investigating cases, holding hearings, and taking necessary action against those involved.

Here is another example: Imagine being billed incorrectly for your mobile data consumption without any explanation, and your telecom operator fails to provide you with the required clarity. You can file this particular complaint with TRAI, which regulates telecom services and resolves certain consumer disputes.

“In short, regulatory bodies make sure that sectors run smoothly and fairly. These bodies keep the businesses in check and step in when rules are broken.”

3. Investigating Agencies and Police Departments

These agencies play a very crucial role in investigating crime scenes and identifying corruption and financial fraud. The investigating agency digs deeper into the case, collects and verifies evidence, and questions suspects to build a strong case that can stand in court.

Alongside specialized agencies, the State Police Department (or national/local police, depending on the country) forms the backbone of law enforcement in most justice systems. The police are considered typically the first responders to crime, who are also responsible for crime prevention, maintaining public order, investigating offenses, collecting evidence, and supporting victims. Their actions and integrity are important to win the public trust in the justice system

Here are a few examples of Investigating Agencies:

• Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
• Enforcement Directorate (ED)
• Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO)
  
• State Police Department (or local/national police)

Let’s make this clearer with an example:

Almost everyone is familiar with the CBI, India’s premier investigative agency. This is a perfectly known example of “Investigating Agencies.” So, how could you actually relate to it? Well, try imagining a public scam that involves both government officials and private companies. The question arises: who will step in to investigate this particular case? The straightforward answer will be – CBI! It will take charge, interview witnesses, gather documents, and identify the entire money trail.

Now, consider a scenario where a burglary occurs in your neighborhood. Now, what would be the immediate response? The State Police Department is the first to respond, seal off the crime scene, collect initial evidence, interview witnesses, and begin the investigation. Their prompt actions could  help prevent further crimes, ensure public safety, and set the foundation for successful prosecution.

Continuing the scenario, consider someone laundering black money through foreign accounts. In such cases, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) intervenes. It will be responsible for investigating violations of money laundering laws and helping trace illegal financial flows.

“These agencies work behind the scenes to uncover facts, bring clarity, and support justice with strong, credible evidence.”

4. Enforcement Authorities
   

Now, there has to be some agency or authority who could ensure that the laws are actually followed and not just written on paper. These are called enforcement authorities that monitor day-to-day activities, enforce standards, and also take actions whenever required.

Their major goal is to protect public health, safety, and the environment! Basically, they ensure that individuals, companies, and institutions follow the law.

Here are the some of the examples of Enforcement Authorities:

• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
• Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
• Drug Controller General of India (DCGI)
  

Let’s consider a few scenarios:

Imagine you have bought a packaged food item that was later found to contain harmful ingredients. Now the question arises: who is responsible for ensuring that this particular product is removed from the market and the manufacturer is penalized for the same? Well, the answer is FSSAI- they enforce food safety standards across the country.

Here’s another example: there’s a factory that regularly dumps waste into a river, causing pollution and health hazards. This is where CPCB steps in! It investigates the case, tests for environmental damage, and penalizes violators if necessary.

“In short, enforcement authorities act like watchdogs that act when laws are violated— protecting people, nature, and public well-being.”

5. Litigation & Prosecution Agencies

Who is the legal voice of the government in courts and tribunals? It’s Litigation & Prosecution Agencies! Basically, they present cases or argue on behalf of the state, and make sure justice is delivered – either criminal trials or civil disputes.

In a nutshell, they drive litigation and ensure that offenders are prosecuted under the law.

Examples of Litigation & Prosecution Agencies:

• Directorate of Prosecution

• State Law Departments

• Public Prosecutors
  

Let’s understand this with the help of the following scenarios-

Until now, we have discussed business or consumer-related dispute resolution. Now, we will be talking about how serious criminal cases, such as murder or financial scams — are being retried out in court. Who exactly represents the government and builds the case against the accused? It’s the Public Prosecutor, who is going to handle the process- from presenting evidence to cross-examining witnesses and arguing for justice.

In addition, let’s talk about another scenario: for civil cases, such as land disputes involving government land—the State Law Department or Directorate of Prosecution will step in to defend the government’s position and file necessary appeals.

They work closely with investigating agencies and enforcement bodies, making sure that once a case reaches court, it is handled with legal expertise and backed by solid arguments.

“In short, these agencies make sure that justice doesn’t just stop at investigation—it’s followed through till the final judgment.”

6. Administrative Authorities
   

Let’s discuss the field-level officers who play a very crucial role in handling land disputes, local conflicts, public order issues, and rural governance. Simply put, they manage the day-to-day governance of districts and subdivisions like handling administrative tasks, ensure law and order, and even perform specific judicial duties.

Key Administrative Authorities:

• District Collectors (DCs)
• Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs)

Let’s have a closer look at a few practical examples:

Imagine a land dispute arises between two villagers over property boundaries. Before it becomes a full-blown legal case, the matter should be brought to the attention of the SDM. Considering SDM as a neutral who would hear both sides, examine documents, and pass an initial order. 

Now, let’s consider another example, where a protest is disrupting public life. To resolve this issue, a District Collector would intervene and will impose the required restrictions, maintain peace, and coordinate between the police, public, and local bodies.

Above all, they conduct elections, respond to disasters, and manage schemes related to health, education, and welfare at the local level. 

“In essence, these officers act as the bridge between the people and the government—resolving conflicts, maintaining order, and ensuring smooth local governance.”

7. Citizen Grievance Redressal Bodies

As citizens, we all need assurance that we can file our complaints, get heard, and attain a timely resolution, without the hassle of going to traditional court. And, this is the reason why these bodies exist!

They provide simple, accessible platforms to address issues with government services, banks, insurance companies, and more. How do these bodies work? They mostly work through digital portals or ombudsman schemes, ensuring that even ordinary people are heard.

Examples of Citizen Grievance Redressal Bodies:

• Public Grievance Portals (e.g., CPGRAMS)
• Lokpal & Lokayuktas
• Banking Ombudsman
• Insurance Ombudsman
  

Here is a relatable example that will help you better understand “Citizen Grievance Redressal Bodies”.

Let’s consider that you have been facing delays in your income tax refund, and that the department consistently does not hear your voice. In this case, you can raise the issue on a Public Grievance Portal, where your complaint is logged and tracked until it is resolved.

Here’s another good example:  Consider that you have been charged unfairly by your bank, or it has rejected a valid claim. So, what will you do in this case? You can approach the Banking Ombudsman, who will give you a fair and quick resolution, mostly through a written or an offline process.

And, in case you’re denied a rightful insurance claim, the Insurance Ombudsman steps in to resolve the dispute at no extra cost.

The Common Challenges Faced By Public Justice Systems 

Our public justice system continues to operate on outdated infrastructure, and as a result, it struggles to deliver timely, efficient, and citizen-friendly outcomes.

• Manual, paper-heavy processes – slow everything down
• Long turnaround times – create huge administrative backlogs
• Zero real-time visibility into case progress or system performance
• Limited access for citizens, businesses, and even officials
• No interoperability between departments leads to duplication and confusion

These issues including case backlogs, limited access, and slow processes are common across continents, from Africa and Asia to Europe and the Americas.

Why the World Needs a Digital Infrastructure for Public Justice

Justice systems globally are embracing digital transformation to improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility, especially accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

And, we indeed need a modern system that should:

• Seamlessly connect courts, regulators, grievance bodies, prosecutors, enforcement agencies, and administrators.
• Modernize workflows without disrupting core processes.
• Enable real-time tracking, auditability, and data-driven insights.
• Empower public officials and provide citizens with faster, easier access to justice.

Now, what if we could really transform this entire justice delivery ecosystem? What if technology could connect the missing dots, making justice not only faster and more transparent but truly inclusive?

That’s exactly where Jupitice steps in! 

Jupitice is not just another legal tech tool — it is the World’s First and Only Meta Product Platform for Justice, Legal, and Governance.

It is specifically designed to modernize both public and private justice systems by enabling:

• End-to-end digital justice systems for government authorities
• Citizen-friendly interfaces for grievance redressal and service delivery
• Real-time interoperability between institutions, systems, and datasets
• Rapid deployment of new systems without writing a single line of code

With its no-code Meta Product Platform, Jupitice empowers institutions to configure and launch digital courts, commissions, redressal mechanisms, and regulatory workflows, tailored to their unique legal, procedural, and compliance requirements.

Backed by years of R&D and significant investment, Jupitice brings together ERP-like infrastructure, deep legal domain expertise, and a scalable configuration model — all built for justice.

Take Away

Meta Product Platform is the beginning of a new era, where justice is not delayed, not denied, but designed.

With Jupitice, public institutions can:

• Digitize without disruption
• Launch systems at scale
• Deliver justice at the speed of trust

Let’s embrace this tech-enabled justice revolution. To know more “Book Your Free Demo.”