New Delhi: Delhi High Court Legal Services Committee in collaboration with Tihar Prisons on Saturday launched its flagship program for the benefit of the inmates of Prisons, namely “Kanooni Saksharta – Sabka Adhikar” from Central Jail No. 4, Tihar.
Through this project, DHCLSC has adopted a unique way of creating awareness amongst the inmates of prisons in Delhi on the topics relating to their right to free legal aid, bail, furlough, parole, remission, plea bargaining, compounding of offences and such other rights. It has nominated its panel lawyers and Jail Visiting Advocates for taking sessions every Friday in Jails (Central Jail Tihar/ District Jail Rohini/ Mandoli) till 01.12.2023.
The programme was inaugurated by the Chief Guest of the event i.e. Hon’ble Justice Manmohan, Judge, High Court of Delhi and Chairperson, DHCLSC. In his presidential address, his Lordship highlighted the importance of proper legal representation on behalf of the inmates in the courts and the role played by DHCLSC in protecting the interest of inmates who are not able to afford due legal representation by themselves. He also emphasised the need of awareness amongst inmates qua their rights, so that they can avail the benefits of such rights in letter and spirit. His Lordship also encouraged the inmates to maintain positive attitude during their period of incarceration, so that they can contribute to nation building upon their release from jails. He assured the inmates that DHCLSC, as always will continue to strive for helping the inmates in availing their rights. At last, the Hon’ble Chairperson, DHCLSC encouraged the inmates to whole heartedly participate in the program.
During the program Sanjay Baniwal, Worthy Director General (Prisons), Mukesh Kumar Gupta, Ld. Member Secretary, DSLSA and Sushant Changotra, Ld. Secretary, DHCLSC spoke about importance of legal aid and the pivotal role played by legal services authorities in ensuring proper legal aid to the inmates. The program was also attended by H.P.S. Sran, Additional Inspector General (Prisons), Naveen Gupta, Ld. Special Secretary, DSLSA and RajeshChopra, D.I.G (Prisons), as well as Superintendents of Jails in Delhi. The programwas attended by approx. 300 inmates of Central Jail No. 4, Tihar.
During the program, the inmates of Tihar Jail gave scintillating performances on patriotic songs. The inauguration program was well received and appreciated by the dignitaries and audience in attendance and it was concluded with a huge round of applause.
In addition, Hon’ble Justice Manmohan, Judge, High Court of Delhi and Chairperson, DHCLSC also inaugurated the newly set up Paper craft unit in Central Jail no 4, Tihar.