Tele-Law 2.0: A New Dawn in Digitally Empowered Legal Services Unveiled by Law Minister
TFP Bureau New Delhi, August 26,2023: A groundbreaking milestone in citizen-centric legal services was achieved on Friday with the launch of Tele-Law 2.0. This significant event marks the next phase in the evolution of the Department of Justice’s Tele-Law program under the DISHA Scheme, illustrating its commitment to fostering justice across every nook and corner of the nation. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice, who inaugurated Tele-Law 2.0, commending it as the dawn of a new era in digitally delivered legal services. The event saw the convergence of Tele-Law Services and Nyaya Bandhu pro bono legal services, promising greater accessibility to legal aid for citizens.
With a remarkable achievement of 50 lakh legal consultations, the Tele-Law program continues to provide an essential service to the country. Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal highlighted the fusion of Tele-Law Services and Nyaya Bandhu pro bono legal services as a significant move towards democratizing legal services’ accessibility. He acknowledged the role of technology in modern lives and urged the alignment of justice delivery with technological advancements. He also lauded the fact that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Tele-Law Scheme had reached the milestone of 50 lakh beneficiaries. The integration of these services streamlines legal support and representation through a single registration process, contributing to a digitally empowered populace.
During the event, the integration of Tele-Law and Nyaya Bandhu pro bono legal services was formally unveiled, accompanied by a video detailing Tele-Law’s journey and an e-tutorial on the integration process. This merger establishes a direct link between those seeking legal aid and pro bono advocates, fostering an ecosystem that promises accessible justice for all.
Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal passionately called upon legal professionals to contribute Pro Bono services, invoking India’s cultural heritage and emphasizing the principle of helping those in need. He likened Tele-Law to a lamp, stating that despite challenges, its light must be kept alive, showcasing the dedication required from every stakeholder in this ecosystem. He urged the Department of Justice to surpass its targets and strive for universal access to justice across India. The event also marked the release of the 4th Edition of Voices of Beneficiaries Booklet by Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal.
In an interactive session, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal engaged with Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), beneficiaries, and panel lawyers, fostering a direct exchange of ideas. He acknowledged and honored frontline functionaries, recognizing their role in bridging the gap between technology and citizens within the Tele-Law program. The event also featured the release of Voices of Beneficiaries, spotlighting real-life stories of individuals positively impacted by Tele-Law.
Looking ahead, Shri Meghwal announced that Tele-Law services will extend to all 2.65 lakh Gram Panchayats through common service centers, ensuring justice reaches even the remotest areas. The ultimate goal of the Tele-Law program is to impact one crore beneficiaries by 2026. The Special Secretary, Department of Justice, Shri Rajinder Kumar Kashyap, emphasized that the right to access the judiciary is a cornerstone of society, and the Tele-Law program plays a vital role in expanding its reach, bringing justice to the last mile.
Secretary Justice Shri S.K.G Rahate provided an overview of Tele-Law’s innovative approach, highlighting its achievements and expansion. The integration of Tele-Law and Nyaya Bandhu pro bono legal services was commended as transformative, ensuring citizens have access to legal guidance and free representation seamlessly.
In attendance were Secretary Justice Shri S.K.G Rahate, Special Secretary, DoJ Shri Rajinder Kumar Kashyap, JS (A2J, DoJ) Shri Niraj Kumar Gayagi, and Shri Akshay Kumar Jha, COO, CSC, who shared the dais during the event.
