SC Judges launch Legal Aid Scheme for soldiers' families in Srinagar
The occasion marked the launch of the Veer Parivaar Sahayata Yojana 2025, a pioneering initiative to provide proactive legal aid to the families of defence and paramilitary personnel.
The program was organised by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in collaboration with the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and the Jammu & Kashmir Legal Services Authority, at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.
Presiding over the event was Justice Surya Kant, the senior most judge of the Supreme Court and Executive Chairman of NALSA. He was joined by Justices P.S. Narasimha, Rajesh Bindal, and N. Kotiswar Singh, who collectively underscored the judiciary's unwavering commitment to expanding access to justice in frontier regions.
In a major highlight, Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai also joined his fellow judges in Srinagar today. He presided over two significant events, one--'In Conversation with the Bar', a NALSA-led interactive session at 10:30 am at SKICC, bringing together legal professionals from the region.
CJI also attended the Mega Alumni Meet, held at 2:00 pm at the Convocation Complex, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, reaffirming the Supreme Court's connection with legal academia and bar associations in Jammu & Kashmir.
Launching the Veer Parivaar Sahayata Yojana 2025, Justice Surya Kant said, 'You serve the country at the borders; we will take care of your family at home.
Soldiers brave enemy fire and harsh terrains. If their families face legal difficulties while they serve, it is the judiciary's duty to ensure they do not suffer silently.'
Citing Article 39A of the Constitution, he said that legal aid is not charity, but a constitutional promise to ensure justice for all, especially those who serve on the frontlines.
The key features of the Yojana include setting up of Legal Aid Clinics at District, State, and Central Sainik Boards.
A dedicated network of nodal officers, legal aid counsels, and PLVs, including ex-servicemen, trained to handle defence-related legal issues empathetically.
Digital integration through e-Lok Adalats, online mediation platforms, and virtual legal services to ensure fast and remote access to justice.
Justice Kant noted that discussions with the Defence Ministry are already underway to ensure smooth operationalisation of these clinics across the country.
He quoted Kashmiri poet Mahjoor, calling on the nation to 'create the glory of a new spring' by embedding unity, compassion, and justice into the legal framework.
The event featured addresses by Justice Arun Palli, Chief Justice of the J&K High Court, and Supreme Court judges Justice P.S. Narasimha, Justice Rajesh Bindal, and Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, showcasing a united front by the higher judiciary.
Also addressing the gathering were Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Executive Chairman of J&K Legal Services Authority, Justice Sindhu Sharma, Chairperson of Ladakh Legal Services Authority, Lt. Gen. Pratik Sharma, Northern Army Commander, who welcomed the scheme as 'a vital and timely support system for soldiers and their families'
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal was also present at the occasion, He called the scheme 'a major step in digital and inclusive justice'
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha pledged full administrative support
The event was part of the North Zone Regional Conference on 'Reaffirming the Constitutional Vision of Justice for Defence Personnel and Tribals', making Srinagar the symbolic launch pad of a national promise.
From the sacred land of saints, the Veer Parivaar Sahayata Yojana 2025 sends out a clarion call: that while our soldiers protect the nation's borders, the Indian judiciary will protect their rights at home.
The programme stands as a living testament to NALSA's motto: 'Access to Justice for All.' UNI SNG SSP
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