DSLSA Empowers Communities Through Comprehensive Training For Para-Legal Volunteers

The Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) continues its mission to democratize legal aid by conducting comprehensive training sessions for Para-Legal Volunteers (PLVs). In its latest initiative, DSLSA organized a two-day Community PLV training program on May 17th and 18th, 2024, at the Conference Hall, Tis Hazari Courts, Delhi. Community Para Legal Volunteers play a crucial role as they possess a strong sense of the dynamics of their community. They understand the social and cultural context and provide a unique bridge between the people and the justice system. This training program was meticulously curated to strengthen the force of Community Para Legal Volunteers within Delhi, empowering them with the skills and resources needed to serve as effective proponents of justice within their respective communities.

This endeavour aimed to equip community para-legal volunteers from various districts with the necessary tools and knowledge to ensure legal aid reaches all sections of society, thereby facilitating access to justice. Approximately 128 PLVs from Central, North, North-West, and West Districts of Delhi participated in this training session.

Inaugural Day: Setting the Tone for Empowerment:

The inaugural day of the training session witnessed the esteemed presence of Justice Manmohan, Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Delhi, & Executive Chairperson of DSLSA. His participation not only underscored the significance of the initiative but also served as an inspiration for the PLVs. He further engaged in an enlightening Question-Answer session, fostering an interactive environment where participants could glean insights directly from the highest echelons of the legal fraternity.

The sessions were chaired by Sh. Naveen Gupta, Ld. Special Secretary, DSLSA, Sh. Mridul Gupta, Ld. Additional Secretary, DSLSA, Sh. Abhinav Pandey, Ld. Secretary (Litigation), DSLSA, and Ld. Secretaries of District Legal Services Authorities.

Throughout the training program, a diverse range of subjects were covered, ensuring a holistic understanding of legal aid and its nuances. Sessions delved into pivotal topics such as the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, Role and Responsibilities of PLVs, Overview of Criminal Justice System, and Matrimonial Laws. Furthermore, special emphasis was placed on laws relating to the Protection of Children, including emerging concerns such as Cyber Crimes. Sessions also addressed the legal rights and challenges faced by vulnerable groups, including Senior Citizens, Transgender individuals, and members of Scheduled Castes & Scheduled Tribes. By addressing such diverse and pertinent subjects, the training program not only empowered participants with legal knowledge but also fostered a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances inherent in the pursuit of justice.

Culmination of Project “स्कू ल चलो (शिक्षा से सक्षम)”:

The inaugural day of the training session not only marked the commencement of a transformative journey for Community Para-Legal Volunteers (PLVs) but also saw the culmination of another impactful initiative. Project “स्कू ल चलो (शिक्षा से सक्षम)” spearheaded by North-East District Legal Services Authority also reached its fruition on this auspicious occasion. This project, dedicated to ensuring the fulfilment of children's right to education under the mandate of the Right to Education Act, 2009, focused on facilitating the admission of children from slum areas into schools. The project emerged as a resounding success, with a total of 101 children within the North-East District, being admitted to nearby schools. Out of which, 58 children gained admission to nearby government schools, and approximately 43 children were enrolled in nearby Anganwadi Centres, underscoring the project's comprehensive approach towards holistic child development.

The event was further honoured by the presence of distinguished guests including Sh. Sanjay Garg, Ld. Principal District & Sessions Judge (HQs), Sh. Vinod Kumar, Ld. Principal District & Sessions Judge (West District), Sh. Kanwaljeet Arora, Ld. Registrar General, High Court of Delhi, and Sh. Pawan Kumar Jain, Ld. Registrar (Vigilance), High Court of Delhi. Their support and encouragement added immense value to the initiative, reinforcing the collective commitment towards advancing access to justice for all.