The Role Of Legal Aid In Fostering Social Awareness, Equality And Accessible Justice In India
- IJLLR Journal
- Sep 27, 2024
- 1 min read
Ganesh Vajrapu, Alliance School of Law
ABSTRACT
India, a nation known for its diversity, has ancient traditions that blend seamlessly with modern aspirations; however, it has proven that especially difficult to provide equitable access to the justice and legal system. Access to justice and the provision of legal aid are fundamental pillars of a just and equitable society. Access to justice is a fundamental right enshrined in th Indian Constitution, and also in the landmark case of Hussainara Khatoon v State of Bihar, Justice PN Bhagwati emphasized the importance of free legal aid in accessing justice, stating that accused individuals with poverty, indigence, or incommunicado situations have the constitutional right to receive free legal services. However, the reality for many marginalized communities in India is that they are unable to access legal services due to
various barriers, including poverty, illiteracy, and lack of awareness. Ensuring access to justice and the effective provision of legal aid is an ongoing challenge in India. The implications of the current scenario
underscore the need for comprehensive reforms and innovative solutions to bridge the justice gap. Despite constitutional guarantees and governmental efforts, access to justice remains a distant dream for many in India. This research paper delves into the contemporary scenario of access to justice and legal aid in India, examining its implications and addressing the formidable challenges that persist.
Keywords: Legal Aid, Social Awareness, Equality, Justice, ConstitutionalRights, Equitable Society.