Nagaland State Legal Services Authority organises mini legal services camp in Zunheboto
Share
DIMAPUR — Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA), in collaboration with Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority (ZDLSA) and district administration, organised a mini legal services camp in Zunheboto town on Friday.
In his address, the deputy commissioner (DC) of Zunheboto, Dharam Raj, pointed out that the government functions through three pillars — the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary— all of which must work in coordination to ensure justice and welfare for the people.
He stated that when citizens face difficulties in accessing government schemes or resolving issues through administrative channels, the judiciary becomes the final avenue for justice. He, however, pointed out that many people are unable to approach courts due to financial constraints and lack of legal support.
Also read: Committees in Longleng review public health status
Emphasising the significance of legal aid, the DC stated that access to legal services is a constitutional right aimed at ensuring equal justice for all, especially for economically weaker sections of society. He noted that many under-trial prisoners remain in jail because they cannot afford legal representation or are unaware of their right to free legal aid.
Raj also highlighted the role of the Legal Services Authorities Act, enacted in 1987, in providing free legal assistance to eligible citizens. He said legal aid is not limited to providing lawyers alone, but also includes support for court-related expenses, legal consultations and assistance in accessing various government welfare schemes and services.
He further stated that legal awareness camps play an important role in bringing justice closer to the people and ensuring that the spirit of the law reaches every section of society.
Delivering the keynote address, Neiko Akami, NSLSA member secretary, acknowledged the service of different departments for enabling the public to gather knowledge of different beneficiaries available to the masses. He added that although there are different schemes, free of cost for the people, it was imperative to enable people to avail the services.
Phuleto Yeptho, district & session judge-cum-chairman of ZDLSA, delivered the welcome address, while Holika Sukhalu, judicial magistrate first class-cum-secretary of ZDLSA, delivered the vote of thanks.
Easter H Yepthomi, retainer lawyer of ZDLSA, chaired the programme and the NSLSA theme song was presented by Naga Kheks.
It further stated that over 1000 beneficiaries were recorded through the different schemes and entitlements provided by Labour department, Social Welfare department, Agriculture department, Forest department, Health and Family Welfare department, UIDAI and legal help desk during the daylong camp.