Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 16: In a move to provide free legal assistance to inmates jailed for minor offences and their families, district principal judge Basavaraj inaugurated a 'Legal Aid Service Centre' at the Mangaluru district prison on Friday, May 15.
Speaking on the occasion, judge Basavaraj stated that the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) has already been actively providing free legal aid. Extending this service directly within the prison premises will greatly assist inmates involved in minor cases and their relatives, he noted.
Delivering the introductory remarks, DLSA member secretary and civil judge Jaibunnisa explained that relatives often face difficulties meeting inmates due to legal technicalities. "Sometimes, families are even unaware of the exact reasons behind the incarceration, which complicates and delays the bail process. In such situations, inmates and their families can avail themselves of free legal assistance through this new centre," she said.
She added that the service centre will also facilitate communication between the inmates and their families twice a week.
The help desk will function from 11 am to 1 pm and from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm. Three lawyers have been deputed to the centre to provide legal advice and guidance to the families of the accused.
Furthermore, the authority has appointed 10 legal defenders across the district to strengthen this initiative. The accused can also avail of these services even prior to their formal arrest. However, judge Jaibunnisa clarified that this legal assistance is strictly available for minor offences and excludes heinous crimes such as murder, POCSO cases, large-scale NDPS offences, and rape.
Mangaluru prison superintendent Sharanabasappa, advocate Raviraj, KSISF inspector Subhash, and centre advisor Dennis D'Souza were present during the inauguration.
Centre advisor Premi Fernandes compered the programme, while Harshitha proposed the vote of thanks.