Justice BR Gavai, Chief Minister, Dr Neiphiu Rio and others during the valedictory function of the State Level Mega Legal Services Camp at NBCC Convention Hall, Kohima on April 12. (Morung Photo)
Over 3,500 beneficiaries receive free legal aid
Morung Express News
Kohima | April 12
Justice BR Gavai, Judge of the Supreme Court of India and Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), on April 12 underscored that justice cannot be achieved unless people are aware of their rights. He stressed that legal entitlements must be made accessible and understandable to the public.
He was speaking at the valedictory programme of the State Mega Legal Services Camp held at the NBCC Convention Centre, Kohima. The event was organised by the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA) in collaboration with the Government of Nagaland and District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Kohima, under the aegis of NALSA.
Justice Gavai stated that such camps are instrumental in delivering legal aid to the doorstep of marginalized communities, in line with NALSA's mandate of ensuring access to justice for all. He also highlighted the significance of Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, which grants Nagaland special protections over its customary laws, land ownership, and cultural practices.
Construction of High Court in Meriema a priority: Meghwal
In his address, Union Minister of State for Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, informed that the construction of the Nagaland High Court in Meriema would be taken up as a priority in 2024. While acknowledging political equality through universal suffrage, he noted that achieving social and economic justice remains a challenge due to prevailing inequalities.
Justice Surya Kant, Judge of the Supreme Court, underlined the mission-driven nature of legal services. He observed that many in India, especially those living below the poverty line or in remote regions, remain outside the reach of formal legal systems.
Justice N Kotiswar Singh, also a Supreme Court Judge and mentor to the NSLSA, spoke about the relevance of the Mediation Act, 2023, particularly Section 43, which enables community mediation to resolve disputes and maintain peace. He said this law strengthens the role of DLSAs in conflict resolution at the local level.
Customary law compatible with modern systems: Dr Rio
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, while addressing the gathering, shared updates on the progress of the Nagaland High Court complex. According to him, the main building is 99% complete, while about 90% of the judges' bungalows have been finished. Construction of residential quarters for staff is expected to begin soon. The state government has already spent approximately Rs 242.78 crore on the project, but an additional Rs 299.02 crore is required to complete it.
Dr Rio also spoke on the compatibility of Naga customary law with modern legal systems. He noted that mediation, a key component in resolving disputes under the new law, has long been practiced among the Naga communities. He reiterated that capital punishment has no place in Naga customary law, which traditionally emphasizes forgiveness and community-based dispute resolution.
Chief Secretary of Nagaland, J Alam, in his inaugural address, described the camp as a significant step in ensuring legal access to all. Citing Article 39A of the Constitution, he stated that it is the collective responsibility of the state to provide free and competent legal services to the poor and marginalized. He added that a majority of Nagaland’s population, including STs, women, children, and low-income groups, are eligible for such services.
The welcome address was delivered by Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi of the Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench, who is also Patron-in-Chief of NSLSA. Earlier, during the inaugural session, Justice MR Pathak, Judge of the Gauhati High Court and Executive Chairman of NSLSA gave the welcome address. Member Secretary Neiko Akami delivered the vote of thanks.
The event featured cultural performances, including songs by children from the Kohima Orphanage and Destitute Home, as well as members of the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA).
Over 30 departments and government agencies participated in the camp, offering free services to the public. These included Aadhaar enrolment and correction, legal consultations, drafting of affidavits, registration for labour welfare boards, e-Shram, health screenings, banking services, and various welfare schemes. According to organisers, more than 3,500 beneficiaries availed the services provided during the day-long camp.
