SRINAGAR: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar, in collaboration with the DLSA Budgam, launched a significant campaign to identify and assist elderly (over 70 years) and terminally ill prisoners at Central Jail Srinagar. The initiative, undertaken under the aegis of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and the Jammu and Kashmir Legal Services Authority, aims to ensure the well-being and legal rights of vulnerable inmates.
The event was held under the chairmanship of Jaffer Hussain Beg, Chairman DLSA Srinagar/ Pr. District & Sessions Judge, Srinagar and Om Prakash Baghat, Chairman DLSA Budgam/ Pr. District & Sessions Judge, Budgam and under the supervision of Nusrat Ali Hakak, Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar/ DLSA Budgam.
As part of this initiative, Nusrat Ali Hakak accompanied by officials from DLSA Srinagar and the Legal Aid Defence Counsels of both districts, visited Central Jail Srinagar. The campaign focused on assessing the legal and health needs of elderly and critically ill inmates, ensuring their access to justice, and providing necessary assistance in line with the principles of human rights and dignity.
In addition to the campaign, a general awareness programme on Plea Bargaining was conducted for the inmates. Legal Aid Defence Counsels emphasized the importance and benefits of plea bargaining, explaining how it can expedite judicial proceedings, reduce litigation costs, and enable quicker resolution of cases. The interactive session aimed to enhance legal awareness among the inmates, empowering them to make informed decisions about their legal rights and options.
This initiative reflects the commitment of DLSA Srinagar and DLSA Budgam to promote justice and uphold the rights of prisoners, particularly the vulnerable sections including elderly and terminally ill inmates. By addressing their specific needs and creating awareness about legal remedies, the campaign seeks to ensure fair and humane treatment for all.