JGND PSOU observes National Legal Services Day
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ November 9,2025
The newly established, School of Law and Interdisciplinary Studies, Jagat Guru Nanak Dev Punjab State Open University, Patiala organised a webinar on November 9 to commemorate the enactment of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, which came into effect on this day in 1995.
Prof. Rattan Singh, Vice-Chancellor, observed, “The day highlights India’s commitment to ensuring access to justice for all, especially the underprivileged and marginalised. According to the Ministry of Law and Justice, more than 44.22 lakh citizens have received free legal aid and advice through the Legal Services Authorities between 2022 and 2025.” He also underscored the growing impact of India’s alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
AmandeepKaur, Chief Judicial Magistrate/Secretary, District Legal Services Authority, Patiala was the resource person. CJM Amandeep Kaur apprised the participants that people have benefited through pre-litigation advice, pro bono services, and legal awareness initiatives. To enhance legal literacy, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and its State and District counterparts regularly organise awareness programmes. “Grassroots judicial access has also been strengthened through Gram Nyayalayas, which provide affordable and swift dispute resolution in rural areas. Nari Adalats under the Mission Shakti programme are being piloted across several States to address gender-based violence through mediation and community justice,” she added.
While speaking on the occasion, Pallavi Bhardwaj, Senior Research Fellow, Department of Laws, Panjab University, Chandigarh, highlighted that legal awareness events educate people about free legal aid and their rights. “Training programmes for judges, legal aid lawyers, and para-legal volunteers build capacity and ensure competent legal representation for vulnerable communities,” she said. Alluding to various cases, she emphasized the vital role of NALSA. 44 participants attended the webinar. Dr.Amitoj Singh, Associate Dean Academic Affairs extended the vote of thanks. The event was coordinated by Dr.Pinky Sra and Dr.Parampreet Kaur
