A regional workshop on Tele-Law programme activities under the DISHA scheme was held in Chennai to strengthen technology-enabled justice delivery and improve last-mile access to justice. The event brought together constitutional authorities, judicial officers, government officials, advocates, Common Service Centre representatives, law students and civil society members. The workshop brought into light the growing role of digital platforms in legal aid, legal literacy and citizen outreach.
DISHA and Tele-Law Framework
The workshop focused on the Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice (DISHA) scheme of the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice. DISHA seeks to expand legal awareness and improve access to justice through technology and community participation. Tele-Law is a key component of this framework and connects citizens with legal advice through digital and assisted modes.
Key Messages on Access to Justice
The Governor of Tamil Nadu stressed the need to combine technology, legal awareness and community participation for effective justice delivery. The Chief Justice of the Madras High Court underlined that access to justice is a constitutional obligation linked to Articles 14, 21 and 39A. He described DISHA as a legal first-aid kit that moves the system from legal aid towards legal empowerment. The Union Minister of State for Law and Justice brought into light the need for justice that is accessible, affordable and citizen-centric.
Tele-Law Progress in Tamil Nadu
A presentation noted that Tele-Law services are being delivered through more than 12,560 Common Service Centres across all 38 districts and 16 aspirational blocks in Tamil Nadu. Citizens can also access the service through the toll-free helpline 14454 and the Tele-Law mobile application. The programme aims to bring legal assistance closer to rural and underserved communities.
Related Initiatives and Launches
- Videos on the Nyaya Oli Project and Nyaya Bandhu programme were screened.
- More than 10,000 advocates have registered under Nyaya Bandhu.
- Pro Bono Clubs have been set up in 109 law colleges across India.
- Ten e-books on customary laws of tribal communities in the North-East were launched.