Justice B.R. Gavai Nominated as SC Legal Services Committee Chairman

January 5, 2024

Justice B.R. Gavai has been nominated the new Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC). He replaces Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the top court’s senior-most judge after the Chief Justice of India.

About SCLSC

The SCLSC, constituted under the 1987 Legal Services Authorities Act, provides free legal services to disadvantaged sections for cases under Supreme Court’s jurisdiction.

Its members include a sitting Supreme Court judge as Chairman and other qualified members nominated by the Chief Justice of India (CJI). The Committee appoints administrative staff as well.

About Legal Services Authorities Act 1987

The Legal Services Authorities Act 1987 gives statutory backing to provide free legal aid to poor citizens as per Article 39A of the Indian Constitution
The Act aims to promote justice on the basis of equal opportunity by making legal services accessible irrespective of economic status
The law seeks to enforce fundamental right to justice for vulnerable sections by breaking barriers like inability to afford legal recourse
It led to the establishment of National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) to implement policies and coordinate legal aid across India
The Act also lays down provisions related to staff, qualifications and payments for providing legal assistance
It came into force on November 9, 1987 so this date is observed annually as National Legal Services Day

Institutional Framework Created

Under the Act, NALSA monitors legal aid activities in India. State Legal Services Authorities in every state spread awareness, provide free counseling and conduct Lok Adalats as laid out.

Similarly, District and Taluk levels Committees coordinate local outreach for awareness and aid access, facilitating citizens’ legal needs.

Gaps Still Remaining

Despite extensive policies, significant gaps persist in granting effective legal assistance uniformly across all vulnerable groups and regional areas. More comprehensive on-ground implementation required.

Justice Gavai must now enhance the SCLSC’s role in expanding legal services for Supreme Court cases through coordination with NALSA and alignment with the Act’s objectives.

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