Kohima District Legal Services Authority conducts training for paralegal volunteers

DIMAPUR — The Kohima District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) conducted an orientation-cum-refresher training programme for paralegal volunteers (PLVs) at Dzü-ü Resort, Rüsoma village, on September 20.

The initiative was part of the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA) monthly common action plan to strengthen the capabilities of PLVs in delivering justice to marginalised communities, stated a press release.

Chief Judicial Magistrate and Secretary, Kohima DLSA, Cheliam Khiamniungan, underlined the crucial role of PLVs as the backbone of legal services.

She said they bridge the gap between the common people and the justice system, requiring resilience and commitment to uplift society.

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Retainer lawyer Sunjib Rana provided insights into the New Criminal Laws 2023, including written FIRs, zero FIRs, and e-FIRs, and guided participants on drafting simple applications for legal aid seekers.

Panel lawyer Nagali Shohe discussed the 10 NSLSA schemes and ongoing campaigns focused on uplifting marginalised sections, eliminating poverty, and addressing social issues. She stressed that these initiatives aim to promote legal awareness and empower vulnerable populations.

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PLV Avinuo Zao spoke on report submission, record-keeping, and maintenance of legal services activities, highlighting the importance of accurate documentation for monitoring and evaluation, which enables PLVs to refine their strategies.

The training programme began with an invocation by Advocate Pheniang Lushing, followed by an ice-breaking session. Long-serving PLV of Kohima DLSA, Neikerhelie Nakhro, shared his experiences and encouraged fellow volunteers to remain patient and dedicated in serving the community.

The programme concluded with an interaction and Q&A session. It was chaired by panel lawyer Mika H Aye, who also delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation for the participation of 34 PLVs, including newly inducted members, along with five panel lawyers.

The training equipped PLVs with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively serve the community and bridge the gap between the justice system and the people.