Source- This post is based on the article “Justice Gavai nominated as SC Legal Services Committee Chairman: What law says on free legal aid in India” published in “The Indian Express” on 5th January 2024.
Why in the News?
Justice BR Gavai has been nominated as the Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC), replacing Justice Sanjiv Khanna.
What is the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC)?
| Aspect | Details |
| What is it? | 1) The SCLSC was established under Section 3A of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. 2) It aims to offer “free and competent legal services to the vulnerable sections of society” in cases under the Supreme Court’s jurisdiction. |
| Composition | 1) The committee comprises a sitting Supreme Court judge as the Chairman and 9 other members appointed by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) 2) The Centre prescribes the qualifications for membership. 3) The CJI can also appoint the Secretary to the Committee. |
| Features | The Committee has the authority, as per the Center’s prescription and in consultation with the CJI, to appoint officers and employees. |
What are the constitutional provisions governing the provision of legal services?
1) Free Legal Aid: Article 39A underscores the imperative of making justice accessible by providing free legal assistance to the impoverished and vulnerable segments of society.
2) Articles 14 and 22(1): Advocating for equality and ensuring well-informed rights for all.
What is the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987?
1) The Act established a statutory foundation for legal aid programs.
2) Aim– To offer free and competent legal services to various eligible groups, such as women, children, SC/ST and EWS categories, industrial workers, disabled persons, etc.
3) Section 27 of the 1987 Act empowers the Centre, in consultation with the CJI, to make rules through notification for implementing the Act.
4) In 1995, NALSA was constituted under the Act to monitor and evaluate the implementation of legal aid programs and to formulate policies for ensuring the availability of legal services.
5) In every state, State Legal Services Authorities (SLSA) were established to implement NALSA’s policies and directions, give free legal services to people, and conduct Lok Adalats.
6) Similarly, District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) and Taluk Legal Services Committees were established in districts and most taluks.
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