Legal Aid in India: Framework and Policies
Keywords:
Legal aid, India, access to justice, NALSA, Lok AdalatAbstract
Legal aid in India is a crucial mechanism for ensuring justice is accessible, particularly for disadvantaged and marginalized communities. Guaranteed under Article 39A of the Indian Constitution, it seeks to provide free legal assistance to individuals who lack the financial means to afford legal representation. The enactment of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, led to the
establishment of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs), which are responsible for implementing and managing legal aid initiatives nationwide. Various programs, including Lok Adalats, legal awareness campaigns, and pro bono legal services, have significantly contributed to enhancing access to justice. Despite these efforts, challenges such as lack of awareness, inadequate legal infrastructure, and procedural delays continue to hinder effective
implementation. The judiciary and legal aid institutions must work collectively to strengthen policies, improve legal awareness, and enhance the quality of legal representation. Technology-driven solutions, such as online legal aid portals and mobile legal clinics, can also contribute to bridging the justice gap. Strengthening the framework of legal aid in India is crucial for upholding constitutional values and ensuring equitable access to justice for all citizens, particularly those belonging to economically weaker
and socially disadvantaged groups.
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