SRINAGAR: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar, organized an awareness programme on the Under Trial Review Committee (UTRC) at Central Jail Srinagar. The initiative was conducted under the able guidance of Shazia Tabasum, Member Secretary of J&K Legal Services Authority, and under the chairmanship of Tasleem Arif, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar, and under the supervision of Sajad Ur Rehman, Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar.
The primary objective of the event was to educate jail inmates about the role and significance of the UTRC in safeguarding their rights and ensuring they are not unduly detained. The programme witnessed the active participation of Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) from the Prison Legal Aid Clinic, alongside jail inmates. Tasneem Kausar, Deputy Legal Aid Defense Counsel, served as the resource person and provided in-depth insights into the mandate of the UTRC.
She highlighted the committee’s role in reviewing the cases of undertrial prisoners, ensuring that their legal rights are upheld, and emphasizing the importance of swift justice. The session also covered legal remedies available to inmates, the necessity of speedy trials, and their constitutional rights within the criminal justice system.
A key focus of the programme was to inform inmates about the upcoming 2nd UTRC meeting scheduled for 15th April 2025. Tasneem Kausar urged the inmates to come forward with their cases, particularly those falling under the 15 specified categories eligible for review under the UTRC framework. She reassured them that the legal aid system is committed to addressing their concerns and ensuring that deserving cases are brought before the committee for consideration.
The interactive session saw enthusiastic participation from the inmates, who engaged in discussions with the resource person and sought clarifications on various legal matters. Their involvement reflected a growing awareness and willingness to exercise their legal rights. The initiative reaffirmed the commitment of the District Legal Services Authority to upholding justice, promoting legal literacy, and ensuring access to legal aid for all, particularly those within the prison system.
DLSA Srinagar remains dedicated to its mission of fostering a fair and equitable justice system. Through such initiatives, it continues to address the challenges faced by inmates and strengthen the collaborative efforts of legal services authorities in ensuring justice for all.
