Accused
The accused is the party who has been charged with the commission of an offence/crime, to be proved before a court of law.
Advocates
In India, an advocate is any person entered in any roll maintained under the provisions of the Advocates Act, 1961 and also includes government pleaders/advocates and officers of the department of prosecution.
Administrative Section
Administrative Section refers to the spaces utilised by Court staff to carry out their respective functions and duties.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a method of dispute resolution outside courts, where the parties appoint a neutral third party (the arbitrator) for dispute settlement.
Bailiff
Bar Association
A professional body or organisation of lawyers which is responsible for regulating the conduct of the lawyers in that jurisdiction and is dedicated to meeting the needs of its members.
Bench Clerk
A Bench Clerk is a law officer who takes care of the day-to-day needs of the Bench during proceedings. They maintain records such as the daily court fee book, maintain the Memorandum book, update the daily board, etc.
Building Committee
A Building Committee is a High Court Committee that deals with matters of all buildings in the High Court, District Courts, residences of the staff and Judges and all other matters of the physical infrastructure of all Courts under the jurisdiction of that specific High Court.
Cadre
A ‘cadre officer’ is a member of the judicial service, who may occupy a specific ‘cadre post’ based on the different hierarchical levels in the system.
Case Display Number
A Case Display Number is a unique identifier or a code for a specific case in any jurisdiction.
Causelist
A causelist is a schedule of Court cases or matters to be heard, providing details such as case names, numbers, and hearing times. Courts typically have daily causelists, weekly causelists, supplementary causelists and miscellaneous causelists.
Civil Cases
Civil Cases are cases that involve disputes between people or businesses over money or some injury to personal rights.
Civil Judge
A civil judge is a judicial officer responsible for presiding over civil cases.
Court Point
Court Point refers to the courtroom or any place where the Court is physically convened, or the place where a Commissioner or an inquiring officer holds proceedings under the directions of the Court as per the Model Video Conferencing Rules.
Criminal Cases
Criminal cases are legal proceedings initiated by the state or government to prosecute an individual or entity for committing a criminal offence which is an act or omission that is prohibited and punishable under the criminal laws.
CSS Schemes
Centrally Sponsored Schemes (“CSS”) Schemes are State-run Schemes that are funded by the Centre as well as the State for development in specialized sectors. The CSS for Development of Infrastructural Facilities for the Judiciary aims at improving the physical infrastructure of Courts at the District level as well as the housing needs of judicial officers to facilitate better justice delivery.
Dais
The dais is a raised platform towards one side of the court, upon which the presiding officer/judge of that court sits while the court is in session.
Digital Courts Technology Officer
The DCTO is an officer identified under Phase III of the e-Courts Vision document who will lead the design, execution and implementation of the Digital Infrastructure in the transitory stage of Phase III.
Defence Lawyer
The defence lawyer is the advocate representing the defendant in a lawsuit or criminal proceedings.
Deposition Room
A deposition is a testimony made under oath and taken down in writing by an authorised officer of the court, typically in an out-of-court setting and before trial. A deposition room is a room designed for a victim or a defendant to give their deposition in a safe and comfortable manner.
Disposed Cases
A Disposed Case is a case which has reached its final conclusion or has been settled by the Court.
Display Board
A Display Board is a live tracker used to inform litigants and lawyers regarding the status of ongoing proceedings in a Courtroom, cases listed or disposed off in other Courtrooms throughout the Court Complex, etc.
District Court
A District Court is a subordinate court as under Articles 233-237 of the Constitution, set up in each district and vested with both civil and criminal jurisdiction. A District Court complex may comprise civil and criminal courts, as well as other Special Courts set up under specific legislations such as a POCSO Court, a Family Court, an NDPS court, etc., Ordinarily, a district court is the first point of contact with the judicial system.
District Legal Services Authority
The DLSA is an authority set up at the District Court level to facilitate legal aid to all such persons who cannot afford the same, and implement Legal Aid Programmes and Schemes at the District level. The District Judge of the District is its ex-officio Chairman.
e-Courts
The e-Courts project under the supervision of the eCommittee of the Supreme Court of India seeks to provide and implement information and communication technology (ICT) in courts and allied services to make the judicial system more affordable and cost-effective.
Empanelled advocates
Empanelled advocates are legal professionals who have been officially appointed or enlisted by a particular authority or organisation to represent them in legal matters.
e-Seva Kendra
Electronic evidence
Digital evidence or electronic evidence is any probative information stored or transmitted in digital form that a party to a court case may use at trial.
Expert Witness
An Expert Witness is an individual with specialised knowledge, skills, education, or experience in a particular field who may be called to testify in a case proceeding.
Government Pleader
A Government Please is any officer appointed by the State Government to perform the functions expressly imposed by the Code of Civil Procedure on the Government Pleader.
Gender Sensitisation & Internal Complaints Committee
The GSICC is an Administrative Committee constituted at the High Court and the Supreme Court which has the mandate of safeguarding the constitutional and legal rights of women.
Harmonised Guidelines
Harmonised Guidelines and Standards for Universal Accessibility in India by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is a guidebook for creating the best practices and acceptable standards for universal accessibility in built environments.
Hearing
A Hearing refers to any formal proceeding before a Court or Alternative Dispute Forum.
His Majesty’s Courts & Tribunals Design Guide
The HM Design Guide is a guide to the design of courts and tribunals. The court structure covers England and Wales while the tribunals system covers England, Wales and in some cases Northern Ireland and Scotland. The Design Guide sets out the vision and minimum standards for refurbishment and new building projects.
Information Kiosk
An information kiosk is a stand-alone counter where litigants can obtain information related to various court processes, fee details, layout of the court, consumer rights, etc.
Judicial Chambers
Judicial Chambers refer to the private offices of a judge or a judicial officer where he hears motions, signs papers, deals with other official matters and rests when not in a session of the Court.
Judicial Officer
A judicial officer is a member of the judicial service, vested with jurisdiction to hear cases and dispense justice.
Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction is the authority and power to look into disputes and pass judgments, vested with an institution (the judiciary) and exercised by individuals within it (judges).
Legal Aid Services
Legal Aid Services are the provision of free legal services in civil and criminal matters for those poor and marginalised people who cannot afford the services of a lawyer for the conduct of a case or a legal proceeding in any Court, Tribunal or Authority.
Litigant
A litigant is the party approaching the court raising a dispute and seeking justice. They may also be referred to as “petitioners” or “applicants”.
King’s/Queen’s Justice
This is the term used to refer to the jurisdiction vested with the monarch to dispense justice, particularly in reference to the exercise of power over a colonial subject.
Listed Case
A listed case is one which has appeared on the daily or weekly causelists for a particular court, which lays down the order of cases to be called for hearing before the judge on that particular day or week.
Magistrate
A Magistrate is a judicial official who acts as a judge in law courts which deal with minor crimes or disputes.
Mediation
Mediation refers to the procedure in which dispute resolution is undertaken through discussion between the parties with the assistance of a trained impartial third person(s) acting as mediator(s).
Mulaqat Room
A Mulaqat Room is a designated room where undertrial prisoners may have meetings with their family members or advocates.
Multipurpose Courtrooms
Courtrooms which would be used for both civil and criminal cases.
NCMS Baseline Report
The 2012 Report on Court Development Planning System (Infrastructure and Budgeting) by the Sub-Committee of the National Court Management Systems (“NCMS”).
NDPS Act (1985)
An Act of the Parliament of India that prohibits a person from producing, manufacturing, cultivating, possession, sale, purchasing, transport, storage, and/or consumption of any narcotic drug or psychotropic substance.
National Judicial Technology Council
The NJTC is a statutory body proposed under the Phase III Vision Document which will focus on designing the Digital Infrastructure based on consultations with all necessary stakeholders.
N-STEP
N-STEP is a centralised process service tracking application comprising of a web application and a complementary mobile app designed to streamline the process.
Notary
A Notary is a legally authorised person who is empowered to authenticate and certify documents, administer oaths, and witness signatures, ensuring the authenticity and validity of documents, thereby facilitating their acceptance in legal proceedings and transactions.
Oath Commissioner
An Oath Commissioner is a legally authorised person empowered to administer oaths and affirmations to verify the truthfulness of statements in legal documents or during proceedings.
Online Hearing
Online hearing is the practice of conducting court proceedings through video-conferencing or other online methods.
Quiet Rooms
A Quiet Room is a room built with the aim of shielding noise from or towards the surroundings. A quiet room provides a dedicated space for users to relax and take a break from the noise and stimulation of the surroundings.
Perpetual Succession
Perpetual succession refers to the continuation of a corporation's or other organisation's existence despite the death, bankruptcy, insanity, change in membership or an exit from the business of any owner or member, or any transfer of stock, etc.
POCSO Courts
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (“POCSO”), 2012 is an act enacted by the Parliament which aims to curb child sexual abuse by increasing penalties for sexual offences against children and creating a sensitive criminal justice system to support child victims. The POCSO Court undertakes proceedings for cases filed under the POCSO Act.
Prevention of Atrocities Act
The Prevention of Atrocities Act, 1989 is an Act enacted by the Parliament of India to prevent atrocities and hate crimes against the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes.
Process Server
A Process Server is a Court official who serves legal documents such as subpoenas, writs, or warrants, especially to those who are required to appear in Court.
Public Prosecutor
A Public Prosecutor is a law officer who conducts criminal proceedings on behalf of the state or in the public interest.
Registrar
The Registrar is the head of the ministerial establishment of a court who exercises such powers and functions which are conferred upon her by the Chief Justice of the Court or the President of the Tribunal.
Remote Point
Remote Point is a place where any person is required to be present or appear through a video link which is not within the Courtroom.
SDG Goal
The SDG Goals are the Sustainable Development Goals set out by 195 nations under the United Nations to bring together their respective governments, businesses, media, institutions of higher education, and local NGOs to improve the lives of the people in their country by 2030.
Sheristedar
Sheristedar is an administrative officer of the court who undertakes the function of receiving and checking out court pleas. She also acts as the officer responsible for the case files’ movement in and out of the court on a daily basis. This post may be named differently in other States. For example, Sheristedars are referred to as Ahlmads in Delhi.
Speedy Trial
A speedy trial denotes a legal process characterised by expediting court proceedings, prompt and efficient case resolution, minimising delays, and ensuring timely adjudication of cases upholding the right to timely justice.
Stakeholders
Stakeholders are individuals or groups with vested interests in its operations and outcomes, including judges, legal professionals, litigants, and the public.
State Bar Council
The State Bar Council is a body that regulates legal practice and education in a specific state, overseeing advocate enrollment, discipline, and ethical standards.
Stamp Vendor
A stamp vendor refers to an authorised individual or entity responsible for selling judicial and non-judicial stamps for legal purposes, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Stenographer
A stenographer is an officer of the court who records the court proceedings.
Suo Moto
Suo Moto means “on its own motion”, where a government agency acts on its own cognizance to undertake an action.
Summons
Summons refers to an order to appear before a judge or magistrate, or the writ containing such an order.
Testimonial Aids
Testimonial Aids are technological aids used for protecting vulnerable victims and witnesses, to create a more comfortable atmosphere and make it easier for them to provide their testimony.
Testimony
A Testimony is a declaration usually made orally by a witness under oath in response to interrogation by a lawyer or authorised public official
Undertrial
An undertrial is a person who is in judicial custody/jail or remand during the investigation and trial process.
Vakalatnama
A Vakalatnama is a legal document that authorises an advocate to represent a party in court proceedings.
Vulnerable Witness
A vulnerable witness is one whose circumstances fall within the scope of the instances laid down in Smruti Tukaram Badade v. State of Maharashtra (2019 SCC OnLine SC 2122), and to whom extra protection and testimonial aids must be provided.
Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres
Following the directive of the Supreme Court in Smruti Tukaram Badade v. State of Maharashtra (2019 SCC OnLine SC 2122), all District Courts are required to set up dedicated spaces/centres, aimed at creating a safe and barrier-free environment for recording the evidence of vulnerable witnesses.
Access with Permissions
Access with Permissions refers to accesses which allow entry to authorised individuals by using a code, OTP, or access card, to punch in the value and gain access to an otherwise restricted area
Access to Public Zone
This is an area or a zone which has free access to all the stakeholders but has some security elements intended for crowd management and people counting as needed for public evacuation during an emergency.
Access to Service Zone
This is an area or a zone which is accessed by all the service providers of the court complex. Some security elements intended for crowd management and people counting as needed for public evacuation during emergencies should be provisioned in this area/zone.
Accessible Parking
Accessible Parking refers to parking spaces that are designated for the use of vehicles used by Persons with Disabilities.
Adjacency of Spaces
Adjacency refers to the relationship and proximity between different rooms or spaces within a building. The concept of adjacency of spaces takes into consideration the functional and practical aspects of placing rooms near one another based on their usage, purpose, and the desired flow of activities.
Alighting Area
An Alighting Area is a designated zone where individuals can safely disembark from vehicles. Positioned strategically near entrances or drop-off points, it facilitates convenient access for visitors, litigants, and stakeholders. This area is instrumental in ensuring gradual and safe vehicular movement within the complex.
Ambient Noise
Ambient Noise refers to the sound pressure levels associated with a given environment. Ambient noise is usually a composite of sounds from near and far sources none of which are particularly dominant.
Ambulant Toilet
Ambulant toilets are specifically designed for those with ambulant disabilities who do not require the extra space that is provided by Accessible toilets. Primarily, they are for those who do not require the use of a wheelchair, for example, those with sensory loss, or arthritis or require the use of a walking frame.
Annex Building
An Annex building is an extension of or an addition to any existing building.
Approach View Point
An Approach View Point is a strategically placed area, which provides clear visibility, orientation, and easy navigation for all visitors, including those with disabilities, by providing unobstructed views of entrances, directional signages, landmarks, etc., while incorporating accessibility features like ramps, tactile paving, appropriate seating, lighting, etc.
Assembly Point
Assembly Point is a predetermined location, designated with appropriate signage, where building occupants are instructed to gather during a fire/leak/explosion or other emergency evacuation. The intent is to provide a clear, organised, and safe location for all building occupants to assemble and be accounted for.
Background Noise
Background noise refers to the sound pressure levels in a given environment from all sources excluding a specific sound source being investigated or measured.
Beacon Alarm
Beacon Alarms are alarms that get triggered by IOT Devices for communication regarding specific emergencies. For example, fire alarm beacons, loitering or unidentified baggage triggered by the Video Management System of an IP Camera Surveillance System.
Bi-Annual Access
Bi-Annual Access refers to renewable Access that may be given to named & verified individuals (renewed every 6 months).
Bollards
Bollards are short, sturdy posts strategically positioned to regulate traffic, enhance safety, and prevent unauthorised vehicle access to pedestrian areas. They also feature detectable attributes like contrasting colours or tactile markings, aiding navigation for individuals with disabilities.
Broad Band Noise
Broad Band Noise refers to spectrum/range consisting of a large number of frequency components, none of which is individually dominant.
Building Envelope
A Building Envelope is the physical separator between the conditioned and unconditioned environment of a building, including the resistance to air, water, heat, light, and noise transfer.
Building Management System
A Building Management System (“BMS”) is a computer-based system installed in buildings to control and monitor mechanical and electrical equipment, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, and power systems.
Circadian Rhythms
Circadian rhythms are approximately 24-hour cycles in physiology and behaviour that enable an organism to predict and adapt to periodic changes in its environment. They influence everything from locomotion and sleep/wake cycles to hormonal rhythms, metabolism, and cognitive performance.
Circulation System
Circulation refers to the movement of people through, around and between buildings and other parts of the built environment. Within buildings, circulation spaces are spaces that are predominately used for circulation, such as entrances, foyers and lobbies, corridors, stairs, landings and so on.
Clear Width
The clear width or distance measured between walls, handrails or any obstructions.
Cross Slope
Cross Slope is the slope that is provided to the road surface in the transverse direction to drain rainwater from the road surface for water drainage and quick disposal from the pavement surface.
Cross Talk
Cross Talk refers to the unwanted sound transmission between one room and another room or space via a duct.
Decibels
A Decibel (dB) is a unit used to measure the intensity or magnitude of a sound or the ratio of two different power levels, often used in audio, acoustics, and telecommunications to quantify sound levels.
Design Tenets
Design Tenets refer to the criteria that shape a vision and define how to perform a design process.
Designated Space
Designated Space refers to a designated area or feature identified and managed to maintain its unique special character or purpose. For example, designated parking, seating, entrances, etc.
Detailed Project Report (DPR)
A Detailed Project Report details all the tasks and elements necessary for the completion of the project.
DG Set
A Diesel Generator (“DG”) set (also known as a diesel genset) is the combination of a diesel engine with an electric generator (often an alternator) to generate electrical energy.
Dry Moat
A Dry Moat is a trench surrounding the perimeter of the building, serving both aesthetic and practical purposes like drainage and boundary definition. It is historically associated with defence. In the contemporary context, it primarily adds visual interest to the landscape while potentially acting as a barrier to unauthorised access.
Empathetic Signage System
An Empathetic Signage System is a signage system, incorporating clear language, intuitive symbols, high-contrast colours, readable fonts, and tactile elements or Braille translations, aiming to enhance accessibility and inclusivity for all users.
Ergonomic Furniture
Ergonomic furniture refers to furniture designed to keep the comfort and posture of the users in mind, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal problems, pain issues, arthritis, restricted organs and poor blood pressure.
Evacuation Plan
An evacuation plan lays out a pathway for how to exit a building safely during an emergency.
Frequency
Frequency refers to the number of cyclical variations per unit of time. Frequency is generally expressed in cycles per second (cps) and is also denoted as Hertz (Hz).
Green Building
Green building design involves designing, constructing, and operating buildings with a focus on environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. It encompasses strategies to minimise environmental impact, conserve resources, and enhance occupant health and well-being through the use of energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and innovative design practices.
Handrail
A Handrail is a long, narrow bar of wood or metal that people can hold on to for support, especially when going up or down stairs or ramps.
HVAC
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) is the use of various technologies to control the temperature, humidity, and purity of the air in an enclosed space to provide thermal comfort and acceptable indoor air quality.
Hydraulic Lifts
Hydraulic Lifts refer to devices for moving objects using force created by pressure on a liquid inside a cylinder that moves a piston upward.
IGBC Building Rating System
Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) rating system is a voluntary and consensus-based program developed by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) was formed in the year 2001. The system is developed based on materials and technologies that are presently available.
Indigenous Plants
Indigenous plants are species native to a specific region or ecosystem, naturally occurring and adapted to local environmental conditions. They play a vital role in preserving biodiversity, supporting native wildlife, and promoting sustainability in landscaping and gardening practices.
Indoor Ambient Noise
Indoor Ambient Noise is a pervasive noise in a given situation at a given time, usually composed of noise from many sources, inside and outside the building, but excluding noise from the activities of the occupants.
Information & Wayfinding System
Information and wayfinding system refers to a wide range of aspects and tools designed to enable users to reach, navigate, identify and use the built environment.
Inspection Zone
nspection Zone refers to the locations near the security gate where vehicles are held temporarily for checking them ( for explosives or any other threats) before being allowed to the designated parking/loading/unloading areas.
IOT Devices
Internet of Things (“IOT”) devices are physical objects embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that enable them to connect to the internet and exchange data with other devices and systems. These devices can range from everyday objects like smart thermostats, wearable fitness trackers, and home security cameras to industrial machinery, vehicles, and infrastructure components such as smart meters and traffic lights.
Internal Environment
Internal Environment refers to the environment that is created inside buildings, as opposed to the external environment, which comprises the environment outside buildings. It may typically be formed by its size, form, layout, texture, etc., and includes the air quality and acoustic, visual and thermal environment. This environment is created by the architecture of the building, including its fabric and systems, and as with the broader environment, it can affect our comfort, well-being, performance, behaviour, growth and development.
Kerb Ramps
Kerb ramps are sloped surfaces constructed at curb edges to facilitate gradual transitions between sidewalks and roadways/driveways, ensuring accessibility for pedestrians, including those with mobility aids.
Landscaping
Landscaping involves designing and maintaining outdoor spaces to enhance their beauty, functionality, and ecological value through the arrangement of plants, pathways, and other features.
Last Mile Connectivity
Last mile connectivity refers to the ancillary mobility network that facilitates people’s journey from a transportation hub such as a bus stop, metro station, railway station etc. to their final destination. This may include provision of walkable paths and cycling facilities; or availability of shared autos, shuttle buses, e-bikes etc. to connect to the destination.
LEED Rating System
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (“LEED”) System is a rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (“USGBC”) to evaluate the environmental performance of buildings and measure their sustainability. It is the world's most widely used green building rating system.
Lead Protection System
A Lead Protection System is a ballistic shield typically used by Z+ Security personnel to safeguard their protectees.
Liminal Space
Liminal Space refers to all movement passages and temporarily occupied zones that serve as in-between spaces or transition zones.
Loading Zone
A Loading zone is an area of a street or a parking lot designated for the loading or unloading of passengers, baggage or freight, or short-term parking for that purpose.
Louver
A Louver is a door or window with flat sloping pieces of wood, metal, or glass across it to allow light and air to come in while keeping rain out.
Low-Volatile Organic Compounds
Low-Volatile Organic Compounds (“VOCs”) are materials or products with minimal emissions of organic chemicals, reducing indoor air pollution and promoting healthier indoor environments.
Manned Stations
Manned stations are designated areas staffed by personnel to assist court users, provide directions, and ensure security playing a crucial role in facilitating court proceedings and addressing inquiries.
Manoeuvring Space
Manoeuvring space, in terms of accessibility, refers to the area in a building that allows individuals, particularly those using mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, etc.), to navigate freely. It includes open spaces and corridors, crucial for easy movement and direction changes, aligning with universal design principles for inclusivity.
Mobile Compactor Storage Systems
Mobile compactor storage systems are movable shelving units mounted on tracks or rails to maximise space efficiency. They compact together when not in use, increasing storage capacity within the same footprint, and can be operated manually or electronically for easy access to stored items.
Mezzanine Floor
A Mezzanine Floor is an intermediate floor between the main floors of a building, and therefore typically not counted among the overall floors of a building. Often, a mezzanine is low-ceilinged and projects in the form of a balcony.
Modular Structure/Design
A Modular Structure is a building that is composed of standardised units or modules that can be easily added, removed, or rearranged as needed.
Need-Based Access
Need-Based Access provides access to stakeholders who visit the Court Complex for a particular day and need to access areas beyond public access like Mulaqat room (Relatives of Undertrials/Accused), press briefing room (Accredited Media), etc.
Noise Reduction Co-efficient (NRC)
A Noise Reduction Co-efficient is a single-figure descriptor of the sound absorption property of a material. It is the arithmetic mean of the sound absorption coefficients at 250, 500, 1000 and 2 000 Hz rounded off to the nearest multiple of 0.05.
Octave
Octave is a band of frequencies in which the upper limit of the band is twice the frequency of the lower limit.
Open-Plan Layout
An Open-Plan Layout in a space refers to a room or building which has few or no walls inside, so it is not divided into smaller rooms.
Parking Bay
A parking bay is a marked area within a parking lot or garage where vehicles can park. It often includes signage indicating details like reserved parking, time limits, or accessibility features, and is organised to efficiently use available space and ensure orderly parking.
Pause Area
A pause area is a designated space within a facility or environment intended for individuals to take a break, rest, or momentarily pause their activities and offers a comfortable environment for relaxation and rejuvenation before resuming tasks. Pause areas may include seating, greenery, and other essential amenities to promote well-being and mental refreshment.
Perimeter Lighting
Perimeter Lighting refers to a lighting design technique that focuses on illuminating the outer edges or boundaries of a space
Permeable paving
Permeable paving refers to pavers that are made of either a porous material that enables stormwater to flow through it or nonporous blocks spaced so that water can flow between the gaps.
Pictogram
A pictogram is a simplified symbol used to represent an object, idea, or concept visually, often employed in signage and communication to convey information quickly and universally.
RFID
RFID (radio frequency identification) is a form of wireless communication that incorporates the use of electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the radio frequency portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to uniquely identify objects.
Rain Gardens
A Refuge Area refers to a place in a building designed where occupants can take shelter during a fire or other emergency when evacuation may not be safe or possible.
Refuge Area
Request for Proposal (RfP)
A RfP is a business document that announces a project, describes it and solicits bids from qualified contractors to complete it.
Restricted Zone
Restricted Zone refers to areas of the Court Complex which are accessible only for permanent staff of the Court System - namely Members of the Judiciary & Court Administrative Staff. Few Operational & Administrative Service providers (like CDAC / CISF / NIC / BSNL Personnel ) may also be given access to this area with special permissions from the court Administration.
Retention Ponds
Retention Ponds are used to hold and distribute rain runoff, which in turn helps prevent flooding. They are often landscaped with a variety of grasses, shrubs, and/or wetland plants to provide bank stability.
Retrofitting
Retrofitting a building means putting new parts or new equipment in it after it has been in use for some time, especially to improve its safety or make it work better. It includes the process of upgrading or improving the structural integrity, safety, and functionality of existing buildings, infrastructure, and other non-structural aspects such as fire protection, life safety systems and accessibility upgrades. The intent is to adopt measures such as simple repairs, renovations, or upgrades to make the building safer, more user-friendly, more resilient, and adaptable to the demands of modern use or future requirements.
Reverberation Time (T)
Reverberation Time is the time that would be required for the sound pressure level to decrease by 60 dB after the sound source has stopped. NOTE — Reverberation time is usually measured in octave or third octave bands. It is not necessary to measure the decay over the full 60 dB range. The decay measured over the range 5 dB to 35 dB below the initial level is denoted by T30, and over the range 5 dB to 25 dB below the initial level by T20.
Rollator
A Rollator is a walking frame equipped with wheels, especially one designed for the disabled or elderly.
Sanitised Area
Sanitised area refers to the area in the Court premise between the perimeter and the main court building where all stakeholders are allowed after screening at the entry/exit points
Security Perimeter
Security Perimeter refers to the area on the boundary of the Court complex which forms the outermost layer of the court security system
Security Transition Point
Security Transition Point refers to any entry/exit point that the stakeholder crosses to access an area restricted by access permissions.
Segregated Entrance
Segregated Entrances refers to the separation of entrances to differential access areas within the court complex for different stakeholders based on their access privilege.
Seismic Zones
Seismic zones are categorised regions by earthquake vulnerability, determined by factors like tectonic activity and past seismic events. Each zone receives a numerical designation indicating its seismic hazard level, impacting building codes and standards for structural resilience against earthquake forces.
Signage
Silent Duress Alarm
Silent Duress Alarm is a safety device used to assist people in an emergency or dangerous situation. Duress alarm systems consist of wireless mobile devices that keep people connected to the resources that will be able to assist them when necessary.
Site-Level Security
Site-level Security in a Court Complex involves measures to protect the entire premises, including security protocols, physical barriers, surveillance systems, and personnel strategically stationed to deter unauthorised access and ensure safety for all.
Spatial Design
Spatial Design refers to the design of human environments, particularly interior environments.
Speciality Courtrooms
Speciality Courtrooms are specially designed Courtrooms that cater to the specific requirements of special legislations such as POCSO, NDPS, etc.
Sound Reverberation (R)
R is the laboratory measure of the sound-insulating properties of a material or building element in a stated frequency band.
Stair Landing
A Stair Landing is a flat platform or area between flights of stairs, allowing users to change direction or continue ascending or descending safely. It serves as a transition point, providing space for resting and manoeuvring while moving between different levels of a building.
Standoff Perimeter
The Standoff Perimeter is the area which forms a sanitised zone between the external boundary of the court complex and the internal location where occupants of the premise inhabit.
Streetscape
Streetscape refers to the appearance or the design of the streets in a town or city.
Structural Redundancy
Structural redundancy refers to the extra capacity built into a structure beyond what is required for its normal use. In case of resilient buildings, such redundancy ensures there are multiple strategies in place in case one fails during the time of an earthquake. Often, structural redundancy is built to accommodate the load of additional floors in a building.
Swales
Swales refer to low-lying or depressed and often wet stretches of land.
Tactile Paving
Tactile paving consists of six different types of standardised paving designs with distinct, raised surface patterns. Visually impaired pedestrians can detect the tactile paving slabs underfoot or by using a cane and interpret the meaning of these patterns.
TGSI
Warning tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) are areas of raised surface domes or cones on the ground designed to provide pedestrians who are blind or who have a vision impairment with warning information about features such as stairs, ramps or hazards.
Universal Design
Universal design is an inclusive approach to designing products, environments, and systems that are usable by people of all abilities and ages without the need for adaptation. It prioritises inclusivity, flexibility, and simplicity to accommodate diverse user needs and preferences.
Ventilation systems (light and air ventilation)
Ventilation systems (light and air ventilation) involve effectively providing natural illumination and airflow within a building or enclosed space. They enhance visibility, regulate temperature, remove pollutants, and maintain indoor air quality for the occupant's optimal comfort and well-being.
Video Management System
Video Management System refers to the software application or system which collates IP cameras and other sensor data feeds from different sensor devices to trigger alarms or send notifications for a pre-set scenario or design rule.
Visiting Room
A Visiting Room is a designated, supervised space within a building facility, providing a controlled, supervised space for persons to meet visitors securely, equipped with seating and communication facilities, and facilitating meaningful interactions with those in custody or under care.
Visitor Management System
A Visitor Management System allows the court Administration to give an access card (either in the form of an ID or a proximity card) for casual visitors to access facilities within the Court premise, after verifying their bonafide & confirming their credentials
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) materials
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are compounds that have a high vapour pressure and low water solubility. They release toxic fumes and carcinogens into the atmosphere.
Wayfinding System
A tool or suite of tools that works to help people navigate their physical environments and orient themselves in their location in space.
Able-Bodied
An able-bodied person refers to someone who is healthy and has no illness, injury, or condition that makes it difficult to do the things that other people do.
Assistive Aid
Assistive Aids are tools and devices used by persons with disabilities to improve their quality of life in terms of mobility, communication and for performing their daily activities.
Auditory Announcements
Auditory announcements are announcements describing the text displayed on a screen.
Automated External Defibrillators (“AED”)
An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is a device that is used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.
Ballistic System
A Ballistic Protection System is a ballistic shield typically used by Z+ Security personnel to safeguard their protectees.
Carbon Footprint
Carbon Footprint refers to the amount of carbon dioxide emissions associated with all the activities of a person or other entity.
Cheriyal Art Form
Cheriyal Art Form is a stylized version of Nakashi art, rich in the local motifs which is distinctive to Telangana.
Climate-Responsive Design
Climate-responsive Design is a building design that reflects the weather conditions in the precise area where the building is constructed which utilises data on the region's weather patterns and accounts for factors like seasonality, intensity of the sun, wind, rainfall and humidity.
Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive Impairment refers to problems with a person’s ability to think, learn, remember, use judgment, and make decisions.
Diverse User Groups
Diverse User Group refers to individuals possessing different traits and characteristics, including but not limited to age, colour, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status.
Eco-Sensitive Zone
The National Environment Policy (2006) defined the Eco-Sensitive Zones as “areas/zones with identified environmental resources having incomparable values which require special attention for their conservation” because of its landscape, wildlife, biodiversity, historical and natural values.
Ecological Impact
Ecological Impact refers to effects left on organisms and their environment due to actions made by humans and natural occurrences.
Energy Conscious Design
Energy-conscious design and planning refers to the inclusion of energy, embodied energy and energy efficiency in the planning and design of the built environment.
Ergonomic
Ergonomics is an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.
Facility Management Service
Facility Management Service is a service that an agency provides to manage the comfort, safety, operations, and functionality of a facility/building and the personnel to ensure an optimised and conducive working environment.
Fire-resistant Evacuation Lifts
A Fire-resistant Evacuation Lift is designed to allow firefighters to move easily around high-rise buildings in case of an emergency.
IP Camera System
IP Camera Systems are Internet Protocol (IP) based Close Circuit Camera Systems which enable monitoring, recording and surveillance of premises where such devices are deployed
Iconography
Iconography is the science of identification, description, classification, and interpretation of symbols, themes, and subject matter in visual arts.
Micro-Climate
Micro-climate refers to a climatic condition in a relatively small area, within a few metres or less above and below the Earth’s surface and within canopies of vegetation.
Nodal Agency
An agency appointed to consult, execute, implement or supervise (or a combination of all) a particular task.
Odisha Ikat Art
Odisha Ikat is a kind of ikat, a resist dyeing technique, originating from the Indian state of Odisha, adapted from ikat in Indonesia.
Oximetry
Oximetry is a method that utilises spectrophotometry to measure the oxygen saturation of circulating blood or a localised region of tissue by means of an oximeter.
Parking Management System
Parking Management Systems are packages to handle vehicle parking for named users as well as facilitate parking space management based on first-in-first-out rules, either on a time-use basis or designated spots for regular users basis.
Passive Design Strategies
Passive Design Strategies are design strategies that utilise the climate and natural elements to maintain a comfortable internal work environment within the building without dependence on mechanical systems for heating, cooling and lighting.
Persons with Disabilities
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 defines “person with disability” as a person with long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which, in interaction with barriers, hinders his full and effective participation in society equally with others
Phasing Plan
Phasing Plan is a project management tool that outlines a schedule of actions or tasks to be undertaken throughout the process of planning, design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of a project. The plan anticipates future requirements and integrates them into the project scope by planning necessary activities and budget for the same.
Plug & Play Model
Plug & Play Model refers to the technical Term for a model of technology deployment which is standardised for interoperability between different brands, or competing technologies, hence allowing easy use.
Potable Drinking Water
Potable Drinking Water refers to water that is suitable for human consumption, i.e., water that can be used for drinking or cooking.
Reprographic Services
Reprographic Services are methods of reproducing content, such as scanning, photography, xerography, and digital printing.
Single Visibility Mirror
A single visibility mirror is a reciprocal mirror that appears reflective on one side and transparent on the other.
Socio-cultural barriers
Socio-cultural barriers are man-made constructs that originate from social norms and cultural values which have an adverse impact on information-seeking by restricting access to sources and giving rise to negative emotions.
Topography
Topography refers to the physical features of land, including elevation, slope, and terrain, shaping both natural and human-made landscapes. Topography plays a crucial role in influencing factors such as land use, drainage patterns, and environmental conditions.
Voice Altering Device
Voice Altering Devices are devices which can change the tone or pitch of or add distortion to the user's voice.
ADR
Alternative Dispute Resolution
AED
Automated External Defibrillator
ANPR
Automatic Number-Plate Recognition
APP
Application
ASHRAE
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers
BICSI
Building Industry Consulting Service International
BIM
Building Information Modelling
BMS
CDAC
Centre for Development of Advanced Computing
CIS
Case Information System
CISF
Central Industrial Security Force
CRPF
Central Reserve Police Force
CSS
Centrally Sponsored Scheme
DCR
Dedicated Control Room
DCTO
Digital Courts Technology Office
DDMA
District Disaster Management Authority
DFMD
Door Frame Metal Detector
Diesel Generator
DHS
Department of Homeland Security
DLSA
District Legal Services Authorities
DPI
Digital Public Infrastructure
DPR
Detailed Project Report
ECBC
Energy Conservation Building Code
ECG
Echocardiogram
FDA
First Division Assistants
GIGW
Accessibility Guidelines for Indian Government Websites
Government Pleaders
GSICC
HSRP
High-Security Registration Plate
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
ICT
Information & Communication Technologies
Internet Protocol
IRIS
Integrated Review of Infrastructure for Safety
ISPs
Internet Service Providers
JALDI
Justice, Access, and Lowering Delays in India
JIMA
Judicial Infrastructure Management Agency
MEP
Mechanical, Engineering and Plumbing
MoEF
Ministry of Environment and Forest
Noise Creation
NCMS
National Court Management Systems
NCMS 2021
National Court Management System Baseline Report on Court Development and Planning
NCSC
National Centre for State Courts
NDPS
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances
NIC
National Informatics Centre
NJTC
NRC
Noise Reduction Co-efficient
National Service and Tracking of Electronic Processes
NVR
Network Video Recorder
Public Address
PDJ
Principal District & Sessions Judge
Police Inspector
PIS
Patent Information System
POCSO
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences
Public Prosecutors
PWD
Public Works Department
Radio Frequency Identification
RFPs
Requests for Proposals
RGNIIPM
Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Intellectual Property Management
RWH
Rain Water Harvesting
SAN
Storage Area Network
SDA
Second Division Assistants
SDGs
Sustainable Development Goal
SMART
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound
SOPs
Standard Operating Procedures
SSICT
Security Systems and Information & Communication Technologies
STC
Sound Transmission Class
STI
Speech Transmission Index
TGSIs
Tactile Ground Surface Indicators
TIA
Telecommunications Industry Association
TTS
Text-To-Speech
URDPFI
Urban and Regional Development Plans Formulation and Implementation
VMS
VWDC
Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centre
VOCs
Volatile Organic Compounds
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Glossary
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Glossary 1
Glossary 2
Glossary 3
Abbreviations
Glossary I: Glossary of Legal Terms
Glossary II: Glossary of Architectural Terms
Glossary III: Glossary of Miscellaneous Terms
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