Introduction: The Tele-Law programme, launched in 2017 under the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, has achieved a significant milestone with 40 lakh beneficiaries across the country receiving pre-litigation advice. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between legal aid and marginalized individuals by providing them with access to legal consultation through an e-interface mechanism. By leveraging video conferencing and telephonic facilities available at Common Service Centres (CSCs) at the panchayat level, as well as the Tele-Law Mobile App, the programme connects those in need of legal assistance with Panel Lawyers. This article explores the various aspects of the Tele-Law Programme and its impact on empowering citizens.
The Tele-Law Programme: An Overview: The Tele-Law Programme operates under the umbrella of the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, with the objective of "Reaching the Unreached" by extending legal aid to those who need it the most. It serves as a pre-litigation stage mechanism for seeking legal advice and consultation. By utilizing technology, the programme ensures that legal assistance is accessible to even the most vulnerable and marginalized individuals across the country.
Connecting Needy Individuals with Panel Lawyers: The Tele-Law Programme facilitates the connection between individuals in need of legal aid and Panel Lawyers through video conferencing and telephonic facilities available at CSCs. These CSCs are located at the panchayat level, ensuring that legal assistance is easily accessible to people in rural and remote areas. Additionally, the Tele-Law Mobile App provides another avenue for accessing the service. Panel Lawyers are practicing advocates selected by the Department of Justice and CSC-eGovernance Services or registered on the Panel of State/District Legal Services Authority.
Eligibility and Free Legal Aid: Under the Tele-Law service, legal advice is made available to everyone. However, free legal aid is provided to those eligible under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. This includes women, children, persons belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, victims of trafficking, mentally ill and differently-abled individuals, victims of natural disasters or ethnic violence, workers in the unorganized sector or industrial workers, undertrials, and people from low-income groups. For all others, a nominal fee of Rs. 30/- is charged for each consultation.
Legal Matters Covered by Tele-Law: The Tele-Law Programme covers a wide range of legal matters for which advice can be sought through its services. These include:
Impact and Benefits: The Tele-Law Programme has had a significant impact on empowering citizens and ensuring access to justice for all. Some key benefits of the programme include:
Enhanced Access to Legal Aid: By leveraging technology and establishing a network of CSCs, the Tele-Law Programme has expanded the reach of legal aid services to remote areas and marginalized communities.
Empowerment of Marginalized Individuals: The programme specifically focuses on providing legal assistance to vulnerable groups, including women, children, and individuals from scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. By empowering these individuals with legal advice, the programme helps them assert their rights and seek justice.
Reduction in Litigation Backlog: By providing pre-litigation advice and consultation, the Tele-Law Programme aims to resolve disputes at an early stage, potentially reducing the burden on courts and minimizing the backlog of cases.
Cost-effective Legal Assistance: The nominal fee charged for consultations under the Tele-Law Programme ensures that legal aid remains accessible to a wide range of individuals. This makes legal services more affordable and reduces financial barriers to justice.
Awareness and Education: The programme also plays a crucial role in creating legal awareness among the general population. By offering legal advice and guidance, individuals gain a better understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and available legal remedies.
Conclusion: The Tele-Law Programme has emerged as a significant initiative in ensuring access to justice for all citizens, especially those in remote areas and marginalized communities. By leveraging technology and establishing a network of CSCs, the programme connects individuals in need of legal aid with experienced Panel Lawyers, facilitating timely and cost-effective advice. With its continued efforts and achievements, the Tele-Law Programme contributes to empowering citizens, reducing legal disparities, and promoting a more inclusive and equitable society.
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