DHAKA, Nov 28, 2024 (BSS) - The Supreme Court (SC) helpline got 723 calls from justice seekers within two months of its introduction by Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed, official sources said here today.

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court Md Shariful Islam told BSS that a total of 723 calls were received by the helpline till November 24 for taking legal advice, case information and lodging allegations.

Among them, 426 persons called for legal advice, 243 for taking case information and 42 for lodging complains regarding irregularities, negligence to duty, delay in giving service and corruption, the PRO said, adding that legal measures have also been taken regarding the allegations.

Senior lawyers of the Supreme Court described the inception of the helpline as milestone initiative introduced by the chief justice on September 25 last.

While talking to BSS, Barrister Salahuddin Dolon said this initiative will reduce the sufferings of the justice seekers and judicial service receivers as it will also enhance the image of the apex court of the country.

He said the judiciary will be really independent when the roadmap announced by the chief justice would be implemented properly.

A judicial officer with the status of an assistant registrar of the Supreme Court has been assigned to operate the helpline as he can help reduce any sufferings of any justice seeker.

The helpline (01316154216) is open for all from 10am to 4pm from every Sunday to Thursday except the government holidays.

The chief justice has already issued 12 point directions for paving the ways of making judicial process easier for ensuring fairness and accountability of the judicial officers.