Tele-Law 2.0 launched: Leap in citizen-centric legal services

A stride in citizen-centric legal services was marked with the launch of Tele-Law 2.0, an initiative of the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice.

This endeavor, operating under the DISHA Scheme, has achieved a milestone by delivering 50 lakh legal consultations, reaffirming its commitment to extending justice to every nook and cranny of the nation.

The launch event, featuring Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice as Chief Guest, inaugurated Tele-Law 2.0, which incorporates Nyaya Bandhu pro bono legal services, enhancing citizen access to legal aid.

In his keynote address, Meghwal hailed the launch of Tele-Law 2.0 as the dawn of a new era in digitally dispensed citizen-centric legal services. Recognizing the essential role of technology in people's lives, he emphasized the need to align justice delivery with technological advancements.

He acknowledged that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Tele-Law Scheme has reached a significant milestone, benefiting 50 lakhs of citizens.

The integration of legal guidance, support, and representation through a single registration process underscores the commitment to nurturing a digitally literate and empowered society. Meghwal called upon legal professionals to contribute pro bono services to ensure that no citizen is deprived of essential legal assistance.

During the event, the 4th Edition of the "Voices of Beneficiaries" booklet was released by Minister of State Arjun Ram Meghwal.

The event marked the formal integration between Tele-Law and Nyaya Bandhu pro bono legal services, facilitated by the Minister of State.

A short film detailing Tele-Law's journey so far and an e-tutorial illustrating the integration process accompanied the unveiling.

This seamless merger aims to establish a direct link between individuals seeking legal aid and pro bono advocates, fostering an ecosystem that ensures accessible justice for all.

During the event, Meghwal passionately called upon legal professionals to contribute pro bono services, ensuring that no citizen is left without essential legal assistance.

He delved into India's cultural heritage to explain the philosophy of pro bono, emphasizing the importance of compassion and positive intent in pro bono work.

He stated that it's an Indian tradition to help those in trouble, and that is the essence of pro bono. Highlighting the significance of relentless efforts, he urged all stakeholders in this ecosystem to strive for universal access to justice across India.

Meghwal engaged in a session with Village Entrepreneurs (VLEs), beneficiaries, and panel lawyers, fostering a direct exchange of ideas and insights.

He also recognized and honored frontline functionaries with certificates during the event, highlighting their role in bridging the gap between technology and citizens within the Tele-Law program.

The importance of early dispute resolution and the role of para-legal volunteers and village-level entrepreneurs in preventing minor disputes from escalating into major litigation was underscored.

Looking to the future, Meghwal announced that Tele-Law services will soon be extended to all 2.65 lakh Gram Panchayats through common service centers, ensuring even the remotest corners of the nation have access to justice.

The overarching goal of the Tele-Law program is to reach one crore beneficiaries well before 2026. Special Secretary, Department of Justice, Rajinder Kumar Kashyap emphasized that access to the Judiciary is a cornerstone of society, and the Department's Tele-Law program plays a pivotal role in expanding its reach, bringing justice to the last mile.

In his address, Secretary Justice S.K.G Rahate provided a concise overview of the Tele-Law program's innovative approach to delivering legal advice through communication and information technology.

He highlighted the program's achievements over the years, its expansion from 1800 CSC centers to 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats, and the goal to provide legal aid to one crore beneficiaries by 2026.

Secretary Justice commended the integration of Tele-Law and Nyaya Bandhu pro bono legal services as transformative and strategic, ensuring citizens have access to legal guidance and free representation seamlessly.

The event was attended by Secretary Justice S.K.G Rahate, Special Secretary Department of Justice Rajinder Kumar Kashyap, Joint Secretary (A2J, DoJ) Niraj Kumar Gayagi, and Akshay Kumar Jha, COO, Common Service Centres.

The launch of Tele-Law 2.0 marks a step towards democratizing legal services in India, ensuring that justice is accessible to all citizens, regardless of their location or socio-economic status.

This initiative reflects the government's commitment to fostering a culture of pro bono service and promoting the rule of law in the country.