Background:
- Article 39 A of the Constitution of India provides for free legal aid to the poor and weaker sections of the society, to promote justice on the basis of equal opportunity.
- Articles 14 and 22(1) of the Constitution also make it obligatory for the State to ensure equality before law.
- In this background, in 1987, the Legal Services Authorities Act was enacted by the Parliament, which came into force on 9th November, 1995 to establish a nationwide uniform network for providing free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of the society. That’s why Legal Services Day is celebrated every year on 9th of November.
- The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has been constituted under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 to provide free Legal Services to the weaker sections of the society. The Chief Justice of India is the Executive Chairman of the Authority. NALSA is located in New Delhi.
Objectives of Legal Service Day:
- To offer free of charge, proficient and legal services to the people belonging to weaker sections of society by organising Lok Adalats.
- Improving Legal literacy by setting up legal literacy camps on this day.
