Recently, the Justice Department commemorated a significant milestone: reaching over 900,000 beneficiaries under its Tele-Law programme. This initiative, run in association with Common Service Centres (CSC), delivers various electronic services across rural India. The CSC programme falls under the remit of the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) and helps bridge the gap, fostering an inclusive digital society with increased financial access.
About the Tele-Law Programme
Launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Law and Justice and MeitY, the programme primarily addresses cases at the pre-litigation stage. Currently, it operates in 633 districts, including 115 Aspirational Districts, spanning across 34 states and union territories. This reach is facilitated through a network of 50,000 CSCs.
The programme uses smart technologies like video conferencing and instant calling facilities available at CSCs at the Panchayat level. The goal is to connect marginalized and hard-to-reach groups with panel lawyers for timely legal advice. The seamless functioning and success of the programme are reliant on the concerted efforts of multiple stakeholders: Village Level Entrepreneurs, Para Legal Volunteers, State Coordinators and Panel Lawyers.
Benefits of the Tele-Law Programme
The Tele-law programme offers a convenient platform for seeking legal advice without draining time and resources. It provides free services to those eligible under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authority Act, 1987, while others are charged a nominal fee.
A recent report titled ‘Quality of Legal Representation: An Empirical Analysis of Free Legal Aid Services in India’ highlighted a common perception. It noted that most people view the free legal aid system as a secondary option, used primarily when they cannot afford a private lawyer.
Supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal-16, which aims to foster peaceful and inclusive societies, provide universal access to justice and build effective, accountable institutions at all levels.
Legal Services Authorities (LSA) Act
Enacted in 1987, the LSA Act offers free legal services to the underprivileged. It led to the establishment of the National Legal Service Authority and other state-level legal service institutions. These bodies conduct Lok Adalats, forums for dispute resolution that aim to settle cases amicably either pending in court or at the pre-litigation stage.
Under the LSA Act, free legal services are extended to Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, women, children, victims of human trafficking, differently-abled individuals, industrial workmen, and persons in protective homes.
Constitutional Provisions for Free Legal Aid
Article 39A mandates free legal aid to the economically disadvantaged and weaker sections of society, promoting justice equality. Articles 14 and 22(1) require the State to ensure law equality, reinforcing the constitutional commitment to equal justice for all.
Sources: PIB