DIMAPUR, JUNE 18 (MExN): The Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA), in collaboration with the Phek District Legal Services Authority (PDLSA), organised a legal awareness programme on the NALSA Scheme on Access to Justice for Victims of Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC), 2025, at Christian Mission Higher Secondary School, Phek, on June 18.
Addressing the programme, NSLSA Member Secretary Neiko Akami explained the provisions of the NALSA Scheme for Victims of Human-Wildlife Conflict, 2025, stating that it aims to address the legal, social and economic challenges faced by individuals affected by human-wildlife conflict in forest-fringe and tribal areas by facilitating legal aid, awareness, compensation and allied relief in line with Articles 21 and 48A of the Constitution.
Akami said the scheme provides for committees at both the State and district levels under the legal services authorities, which are mandated to coordinate with the Forest Department in addressing human-wildlife conflict cases.
He informed participants that incidents of human-wildlife conflict could be reported to the respective District Legal Services Authority, which would facilitate necessary legal assistance and coordination.
The scheme, he said, extends to victims who have been attacked or killed by wild animals, as well as cases involving destruction of farmland or crops. He added that affected persons are entitled to timely intervention, including relief and compensation based on the extent of the loss suffered.
Citing examples, Akami said relief amounts had already been distributed to victims in Wokha district who suffered losses due to wild elephant attacks. He added that District Legal Services Authorities, through their chairpersons, secretaries and panel lawyers, are tasked with creating public awareness so that affected communities know where to report such incidents and seek assistance.
Retainer Lawyer of Phek DLSA, Sekhotso Rokha, delivered a session on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. He said every person below the age of 18 years is recognised as a child under the law and is entitled to legal protection. He explained the concept of "good touch and bad touch," outlined the penal provisions under the Act and encouraged participants to report cases involving sexual offences.
Panel Lawyer of Phek DLSA, Thukutalu Chizo, spoke on the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, highlighting its objectives and key provisions. She also briefed participants on the amendments introduced through the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022.
Chizo encouraged students to develop empathy towards wildlife and uphold the Fundamental Duties under Articles 48A and 51A(g) of the Constitution to protect and improve the natural environment.
The programme was chaired by advocate Khotsozo Venuh and attended by more than 150 students.
