A regional event-cum-workshop under the Tele-Law DISHA initiative highlighted technology-driven access to justice, stakeholder coordination, and strengthening of last-mile legal services in Jammu and Kashmir.
February 17, Srinagar: A Regional Event-cum-Workshop under the Tele-Law Initiative of the DISHA scheme was organized at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India. The workshop was convened as part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen access to justice through technology-enabled services and promote informed deliberations among key stakeholders.
The event brought together a wide range of participants, including Common Service Centres, law schools, judicial officers, advocates, administrators, field functionaries, students, and civil society representatives, to discuss effective delivery of legal services, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
The programme was graced by Arjun Ram Meghwal, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice and Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, along with Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, and Arun Palli, Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The workshop commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by a cultural presentation of “Vande Mataram” by local artists to mark the 150th anniversary of India’s National Song. In his welcome address, the Secretary (Justice) highlighted the constitutional mandate under Articles 39A, 14, and 21, and underscored the role of the DISHA scheme in ensuring accessible, affordable, and timely justice for all citizens.
An informational video on Tele-Law was screened to create awareness about its functioning, pre-litigation legal advice mechanism, and its integration with the Nyaya Bandhu programme. The video also showcased the role of Nyaya Sahayaks in connecting beneficiaries with qualified legal professionals and pro bono advocates at the grassroots level.
During the event, panel lawyers, Nyaya Sahayaks, and Village Level Entrepreneurs associated with Tele-Law were felicitated for their contributions in strengthening last-mile access to justice, spreading legal awareness, and reinforcing public trust in the justice delivery system.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister stressed that justice is a constitutional right of every citizen and highlighted the need to reduce court pendency by preventing avoidable disputes and encouraging timely resolution of cases. He noted that Tele-Law has benefited lakhs of people across thousands of Panchayats by resolving issues at the pre-litigation stage.
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal emphasised that the Constitution of India remains the foundation of justice, equality, and dignity. He said initiatives such as Tele-Law, Nyaya Bandhu, and legal literacy programmes are instrumental in realising the vision of social and economic justice, adding that digital platforms have transformed justice delivery by bringing legal services closer to citizens.
The workshop provided a platform for interaction, experience sharing, and policy dialogue among stakeholders, strengthening coordination for effective and inclusive justice delivery. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the Joint Secretary, who acknowledged the contributions of dignitaries, departments, and partner institutions and expressed confidence that the outcomes of the workshop would translate into meaningful action on the ground.
