PULWAMA, SEPTEMBER 25: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Pulwama organised an awareness programme on the NALSA (Legal Services to Persons with Mental Illness & Persons with Intellectual Disabilities) Scheme, 2024, with the objective of strengthening awareness regarding the legal rights, entitlements and access to free legal services for persons with mental illness and persons with intellectual disabilities.
During the programme, participants were sensitised about the provisions of the Scheme, the importance of legal aid and the role of Legal Services Authorities in ensuring equal access to justice for vulnerable and disadvantaged persons. Emphasis was laid on protecting the dignity, rights and interests of persons with mental illness and intellectual disabilities and ensuring that they are not deprived of legal representation or other available legal remedies.
The resource person Advocate Masood Ahmad Magery, Panel lawyer highlighted the various mechanisms available through DLSA/TLSCs for seeking free legal aid, legal advice, assistance and representation, wherever required. The participants were also informed about the importance of identifying persons in need of legal assistance and facilitating their access to the appropriate legal services.
The programme further emphasised the need for coordinated efforts among Legal Services Authorities, institutions, caregivers, families, social welfare agencies and other stakeholders for effective implementation of the Scheme at the grassroots level.
DLSA Pulwama reiterated its commitment to strengthening legal awareness and ensuring that no person is denied access to justice due to mental illness, intellectual disability or inability to afford legal services.
