From correspondents in Delhi, India, 10:03 PM IST

In a significant step aimed at enhancing its transparency, the Supreme Court has decided to begin audio-recording its proceedings in important cases.

The apex court's secretary general V.K. Jain Tuesday told reporters that the system to audio-record the court's proceedings and arguments, specially important ones, will be shortly introduced in the Supreme Court.

'The audio recording of the hearings will help the judges in cross-checking the arguments before delivering the judgement,' he said.

Jain said the system will be first introduced in the courtroom of the Chief Justice and after analysing its result, a decision will be taken to extend the facility in other courtrooms.

Jain said the Central Public Works Department has been asked to install audio-recording system in the CJI's courtroom and in a month or two audio-recording of hearings in the apex court would be a reality.

'The success of the system will have a far-reaching impact. Once the audio recording of the hearings is a success in the apex court, it may be extended to High Courts and the lower courts,' he said.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)