Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Feb 17: Asserting that access to justice must reach every citizen, irrespective of geography, social status, or economic background, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal on Tuesday said that technology-driven initiatives such as Tele-Law are playing a transformative role in bridging the gap between citizens and the justice delivery system.
Delivering an address at the Regional Event-cum-Workshop under the Tele-Law Initiative of the DISHA scheme at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), MoS Meghwal focused on strengthening technology-enabled justice delivery and expanding legal awareness mechanisms across Jammu and Kashmir.
Meghwal underscored that the Constitution of India is the cornerstone of justice, equality, and dignity.
He said that Articles 14, 21, and 39A collectively mandate equal protection of laws, protection of life and liberty, and the provision of free legal aid to ensure that justice is not denied due to economic or other disabilities.
Reiterating the core message that every citizen has the right to justice under the Constitution, the Minister said that initiatives like Tele-Law are practical instruments to translate constitutional promises into ground-level impact.
“Justice must not remain confined to courtrooms but must be accessible in villages, remote mountainous regions, and underserved communities,” he said.
Highlighting the transformative role of technology, Meghwal said digital platforms have significantly bridged distances and enabled citizens to seek timely pre-litigation advice without physically travelling long distances.
He also noted that Tele-Law services delivered through Common Service Centres have helped connect beneficiaries with panel lawyers and pro bono advocates, reducing unnecessary litigation and easing the burden on courts.
“Tele-Law, Nyaya Bandhu, and legal literacy programmes are aligned with the vision of Dr B.R. Ambedkar for social and economic justice,” MoS Meghwal said. “Strengthening legal awareness is equally important as strengthening legal infrastructure, as informed citizens are better equipped to safeguard their rights.”
Calling for the expansion of the pro bono ecosystem, the minister encouraged greater participation of advocates in voluntary legal services.
“Smaller and decentralised workshops should be organised to widen outreach and build a robust grassroots-level network of legal assistance providers,” he said.
He further interacted with Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), panel lawyers, and students, appreciating their role in facilitating last-mile justice delivery.
Meghwal also referred to the Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana, 2025, and shared an account to underline the importance of strong legal support systems for families of soldiers and vulnerable sections of society.
He said a responsive legal framework is essential for ensuring dignity and timely relief to such families.
Lauding the contribution of Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh Arun Palli, the minister said that his dedicated service has had a visible and positive impact across the region.
He further expressed confidence that continued cooperation between the judiciary, executive, and grassroots institutions would further strengthen justice delivery mechanisms.
Meghwal also expressed confidence that collective efforts would transform Jammu & Kashmir into a model region for technology-enabled, inclusive access to justice.
The Union MoS said sustained focus on legal literacy, digital integration, and pro bono expansion would ensure that justice reaches every doorstep.
The workshop, he said, was not merely an event but a step towards deepening constitutional values and strengthening citizen-centric justice delivery in the Union Territory.
