KATHMANDU: Chief Justice Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma has stressed the need for an effective strategy to anticipate and resolve risks arising from potential internet disruptions.

Speaking at the 17th Asia Pacific Regional Internet Governance Forum (APrIGF) held in Lalitpur, he stated that internet governance must be based on risk management and resilience.

Sharma emphasized that the security of digital infrastructure is essential for maintaining public services and institutional continuity during crises. ‘Resilient internet and digital infrastructure mean protecting people, their rights, and institutions. Effective enjoyment of rights and access to essential public services depend on reliable and secure digital infrastructure,’ he said. He added that there is a need to work together to build an internet governance framework that is safe, inclusive, accountable, and human-centric.

Reflecting on recent natural disasters in Nepal, Sharma noted that floods in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems damaged road, electricity, and telecommunication infrastructure, highlighting the vulnerability of digital technology. He stressed the need to build systems that can withstand disruptions, adapt to circumstances, and recover quickly.

Regarding the judiciary, Sharma mentioned that the use of technology is increasing in case management, electronic record-keeping, and judicial hearings. He noted that while digital systems enhance efficiency, they also create new risks, necessitating secure digital records and effective disaster recovery systems. The ultimate goal of digital transformation, he stated, is to strengthen access to justice and ensure services are swift, cost-effective, and citizen-centric.

Sharma further highlighted that since risks such as floods, earthquakes, and cybercrime can transcend national borders, regional and international cooperation is vital. He mentioned that the ‘Information and Communication Technology Policy for Judiciary 2026’, recently issued by the Supreme Court, considers information security as the foundation of the judiciary’s digital transformation. He expressed confidence that the forum, organized under the UN’s Internet Governance Forum initiative, would strengthen regional dialogue and cooperation among participants.