NALSA awareness camp highlights legal aid for marginalised communities in Guntur

Guntur District Principal Judge and Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) B. Sai Kalyan Chakravarthi stressed that every citizen must be aware of their legal rights and responsibilities after inaugurating a new module legal awareness camp, at the Collectorate on Saturday. The programme was organised under the aegis of the National and State Legal Services Authorities (NALSA), in coordination with the district administration.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Chakravarthi said that NALSA’s prime objective is to extend legal aid to women, children, poor, victims of substance abuse, and physically or mentally challenged persons. He noted that the lack of awareness prevents many eligible beneficiaries from accessing schemes, though free legal aid and speedy settlements are available through Lok Adalats.

Additional District Judge R. Sharath Babu said schemes like ‘Ujjwala’ provide opportunities for SC and ST communities, while judge V.A.L. Satyavati stressed the need for greater public awareness. Superintendent of Police (SP) S. Satish Babu outlined the importance of victim compensation, speedy dispute resolution, and legal support for differently-abled persons.

DLSA Secretary Syed Ziyauddin emphasised that social justice and equality are at the core of NALSA’s mission, adding that free legal aid for weaker sections, poverty alleviation schemes, and assistance for SC, ST and differently-abled communities must reach every eligible person. He explained the available schemes in detail to the beneficiaries.

At the event, financial assistance of ₹71 lakh was distributed to 108 beneficiaries, while women received autorickshaws, and differently-abled persons were given hearing aids, smartphones and wheelchairs.

Bar Association president Y. Shiva Suryanarayana, DRDA officials, panel advocates, para-legal volunteers, and the public attended in large numbers.