Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Commends Chief Justice for Mission Mode Approach to Legal Aid
New Delhi: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed his concern on Monday about the denial of legal aid to vulnerable individuals, stating that it poses an existential challenge. He emphasized that affirmative initiatives and policies can help address this issue faced by weaker sections of society. Dhankhar also urged countries in the Global South to break free from their colonial past and work together to rectify historical injustices and inequalities.
“Our country is in the process of legislative reforms that will bring about a significant change in our outlook, completely eliminating exploitative provisions in legal procedures and penology,” Dhankhar said. He was likely referring to three bills currently under consideration in Parliament that aim to replace the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and the Evidence Act.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the regional conference on “Ensuring Access to Quality Legal Aid for the Vulnerable: Challenges and Opportunities in the Global South,” Dhankhar highlighted Parliament’s commitment to legal reformation.
Promoting mediation, repealing outdated laws that hinder progress, and enacting new laws that address contemporary challenges are among the key areas being considered and passed through these bills. Dhankhar emphasized that access to legal aid and the justice system is crucial for nurturing fundamental human values and fostering equitable societies.
He referred to the inclusive spirit of the Indian Constitution, as reflected in the preamble’s declaration, “We, the people of India.” This document aims to safeguard the rights of every citizen, regardless of their background, circumstances, or social standing.
Dhankhar also praised Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud for his mission mode approach in ensuring the availability of legal aid and easy access to justice, especially for marginalized sections of society. Over the past year, Chandrachud has implemented several innovative and people-centric measures that have significantly improved legal aid and access to the justice system for vulnerable segments of society.
The conference was attended by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Chief Justice Chandrachud, and senior judges of the Supreme Court.
(Note: This article has been published from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by NDTV staff, except for the headline.)
