Panchkula: In adherence to the directives of the Haryana State Legal Services Authority (HALSA), a special Jail Lok Adalat was conducted at the Central Jail under the supervision of Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Secretary, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Ms. Aparna Bhardwaj. This initiative aimed to expedite justice delivery for under-trial prisoners and provide them with legal relief in specific categories of cases.
Since Panchkula district does not have a jail of its own, the Central Jail serves as the common correctional facility for both Panchkula and Ambala districts. During the Jail Lok Adalat, three cases were reviewed, leading to the resolution of cases and the subsequent release of accused individuals. The under-trial prisoners who benefited from this initiative include Binder Singh and Jagdeep Singh, both accused in FIR No. 81/2024 and 117/2024, registered at Police Station Sector 20, Panchkula, under Section 379 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Section 303 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Additionally, Rampal, accused in FIR No. 307/2024 at Police Station Chandimandir under Sections 303, 317(2), and 238 of the BNS, was also granted relief through this legal mechanism.
Ms. Aparna Bhardwaj emphasized that the Jail Lok Adalat serves as an effective judicial platform for resolving cases related to petty offences and compoundable criminal matters. She highlighted the significance of this initiative in promoting legal aid, ensuring timely justice, and strengthening public trust in the judicial system.
Furthermore, she pointed out that the initiative plays a crucial role in rehabilitating and reintegrating released prisoners into society. According to the HALSA schedule, Jail Lok Adalats are conducted twice a month, specifically on the first and third Wednesday, to ensure consistent legal aid and justice delivery.
Ms. Bhardwaj reiterated the commitment of the District Legal Services Authority to ensuring justice for all, particularly for those who lack the means to afford legal representation. The DLSA continues to uphold the principles of fair and speedy justice, contributing to the vision of the Haryana State Legal Services Authority in fostering a just and equitable legal system.
