DEOGHAR (Jharkhand), Nov 2: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Monday called for a more accessible and responsive legal aid system to ensure that economically and socially weaker sections receive timely justice and support.
Addressing a State Level Legal Services cum Empowerment Camp in Deoghar, the CJI emphasised that legal assistance should be available round-the-clock to those who cannot afford professional legal services.
He urged the judiciary, from taluka and district courts to high courts and the Supreme Court, to recognise the difficulties faced by underprivileged people and provide appropriate remedies.
Drawing a comparison with healthcare services, Justice Kant said patients visiting hospitals are reassured by medical staff even before a doctor examines them, helping ease their anxiety.
He stressed that legal aid professionals and para-legal volunteers should adopt a similar approach by proactively reaching out to vulnerable communities, including poor families, senior citizens, women, children and persons with disabilities.
The CJI highlighted the need to make legal support accessible and ensure that those in need are not left struggling to navigate the justice system.
During the programme, he virtually inaugurated legal aid clinics in Palamu and Ranchi. He also distributed benefits to eligible recipients under various government welfare schemes.
Earlier, Justice Kant visited Baba Baidyanath Dham temple in Deoghar and offered prayers. The temple is among the 12 revered Jyotirlingas in the country.