Tele-Law Programme
Context:
The Tele-Law 2.0 initiative was launched marking the evolution of the Tele-Law program of the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice. Operating under the DISHA Scheme, this program has reached a momentous achievement of having successfully provided 50 lakh legal consultations. This accomplishment underscores its steadfast commitment to extending justice to all corners of the country.
Relevance:
GS-02 (Government Policies and Interventions)
The Tele-Law Programme:
- The Tele-Law initiative operates under the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice, a division of the Ministry of Law and Justice.
- Launched in the year 2017, it stands as a groundbreaking platform for securing legal advice and consultation during the pre-litigation stage, driven by the vision of “Reaching the Unreached.”
- This ingenious program is designed to bridge the gap between those seeking legal aid, particularly the marginalized and underserved, and Panel Lawyers through a digital interface.
- This connection is established via video conferencing or telephonic facilities accessible at Common Service Centres (CSCs) located at the grassroots level, such as panchayats. Additionally, the convenience of the Tele-Law Mobile App extends the service’s reach even further.
- A Panel Lawyer, meticulously chosen by the Department of Justice and CSC-eGovernance Services, or registered on the Panel of State/District Legal Services Authority, acts as the legal expert in this collaborative effort.
Eligibility Criteria:
The Tele-Law service extends its arms to provide legal advice to a broad spectrum of individuals. Free legal advice is extended to those who fall under the purview of Section 12 of the LSA Act, 1987. This includes:
- Women
- Children
- Individuals from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
- Victims of Trafficking
- People with Mental Illness or Different Abilities
- Victims of Natural Disasters or Ethnic Violence
- Unorganized Sector or Industrial Workers
- Undertrials
- Individuals with Limited Income
- For other individuals, a nominal consultation fee of Rs. 30/- is applicable.
Scope of Legal Assistance:
The Tele-Law service covers a diverse range of legal matters, offering guidance on issues such as:
- Resolving dowry-related disputes and family conflicts, including divorce proceedings and protection against domestic violence.
- Addressing cases of sexual harassment, abuse, and eve-teasing in workplace environments.
- Ensuring maintenance for women, children, and senior citizens.
- Navigating property and land rights.
- Advocating for equal wages regardless of gender.
- Securing maternity benefits and preventing the heinous practice of foeticide.
- Addressing atrocities committed against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, along with rehabilitation efforts.
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