Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Sunday said his government was considering the introduction of local courts at the lowest level to ensure speedier dispensation of justice.

"Hearing in these courts will be as close to the cause of action as possible and their procedures will be simple," he said while inaugurating the silver jubilee celebrations of Telugu daily Prajashakti here.

Manmohan Singh said local courts would be an integral part of the judiciary at the lowest level and help in delivering cost-effective and speedy justice.

"We are committed to bringing down the pendency of cases in courts and to reducing the time taken in deciding cases. A series of steps are proposed to be taken in this regard," he said.

The prime minister said he was happy to say that chief justice of India and senior judges were supportive of a range of reforms in the judicial system.

He said he wished to see a new wave of reforms in government, including in the functioning of police, security forces and the judiciary.

Manmohan Singh said his government was committed to such reforms.

"Our police and security forces are doing a valiant job in preserving law and order. However, mistakes are sometimes made. We have to ensure that our police machinery functions in a humane and just manner and with respect for human rights and values," he said.

He noted that there was a need for humane and just governance and for honest, efficient and transparent government.

"People must constantly renew their trust in our political, administrative, judicial and other institutions," he said.