Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has called for inclusive and accessible justice, as Delhi rolls out a new model linking legal aid with grassroots health and welfare systems
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has emphasised the urgent need to make justice more inclusive and accessible, particularly for vulnerable sections, while addressing a gathering at the Delhi High Court during the launch of major legal aid initiatives by the Delhi State Legal Services Authority.
In his address, the CJI underlined that access to justice must go beyond courts and reach communities at the grassroots level. He stressed the importance of legal awareness so that citizens, especially marginalised groups, can effectively exercise their rights and seek remedies without barriers.
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New handbook to strengthen para legal volunteers
One of the key initiatives launched is the “Handbook-cum-Field Diary for Para Legal Volunteers – 2026”, designed to serve as a practical guide for para legal volunteers (PLVs). The handbook simplifies complex legal processes and provides clear information on eligibility for free legal aid, rights of women and children, consumer protection, and procedures such as FIR registration and cyber complaints.
This initiative is expected to enhance the effectiveness of PLVs, who act as a bridge between the legal system and communities.
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Legal aid integrated with healthcare and childcare systems
In a significant shift, the programme introduces a pilot project that integrates legal awareness with public health and childcare networks. ASHA and Anganwadi workers will be trained as para legal volunteers to conduct door-to-door outreach, identify individuals in need of legal support, and connect them with appropriate services.
This model aims to embed legal assistance within everyday community touchpoints, making access to justice more practical and immediate.
Support centres in hospitals for victims
Another major step is the establishment of facilitation centres in government hospitals, where victims—especially women and children—will receive legal aid alongside free medical treatment. These centres will provide counselling, coordinate with police authorities, and ensure timely access to justice.
The initiatives mark a broader shift towards a more integrated and citizen-centric legal system. By linking legal services with healthcare and grassroots networks, authorities aim to overcome long-standing barriers such as lack of awareness, accessibility, and procedural complexity.
Officials noted that these measures represent a significant step in transforming legal aid delivery in India, ensuring that justice is not only available in principle but also accessible in practice for every citizen.
(With ANI inputs)
Published: 24 Mar 2026, 02:48 pm IST
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