DISHA Scheme: Empowering Last-Mile Justice Delivery in India
In a concerted effort to democratize legal aid, a Regional Workshop on the Tele-Law Programme under the
DISHA Scheme
(Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice) was recently conducted in Kurukshetra, Haryana
. Driven by the Ministry of Law and Justice, the initiative leverages technology and community networks to provide accessible and affordable justice to citizens. By utilizing Common Service Centres (CSCs)
, the Tele-Law mobile application, and the dedicated 14454 helpline, the government is bridging the gap between marginalized individuals and the justice delivery system, aligning directly with the constitutional mandate of Article 39A
.
DISHA Scheme
Holistic Access to Justice
Tele-Law Initiative
Toll-Free Helpline 14454
Nyaya Bandhu
Pro Bono Legal Services
Key Initiatives & Strategic Focus
The workshop highlighted the transformative impact of the
DISHA framework
, emphasizing that true democratic strength lies in delivering "Justice at the doorstep."
🏛️ Expanding Pro Bono Culture
The
Nyaya Bandhu programme
connects volunteer advocates with marginalized citizens. The event drew inspiration from historical pro bono advocacy, such as C.R. Das defending Arvind Ghosh in the Alipur Dwar Case. Currently, over 10,000 advocates and 109 law college Pro Bono Clubs are registered nationwide.👩🏽🌾 Grassroots Tele-Law Reach
Starting from the Aspirational District of
Nuh (Mewat)
, Tele-Law services in Haryana have now expanded to cover all 22 districts via an extensive network of over 6,197 CSCs, ensuring pre-litigation advice reaches the most remote areas.🔄 Major Document Launches
•
Flag-off of the DISHA Awareness Van to boost public participation.
•
Release of a Doordarshan documentary showcasing the transformative grassroots impact of the scheme.
•
Launch of two e-books documenting the
customary laws of North-Eastern tribal communities
, developed alongside the Gauhati High Court's Law Research Institute.
The effective implementation of the DISHA Scheme and new criminal laws advances the vision of a
Digital India
and fulfills the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16
—promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.
UPSC CSE Quiz
1. With reference to the 'DISHA' Scheme formulated by the Department of Justice, consider the following statements:
1. It primarily aims to provide high-speed broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats.
2. The Nyaya Bandhu initiative under this scheme focuses on providing Pro Bono Legal Services to marginalized sections.
3. It acts as an umbrella scheme fulfilling the constitutional mandate of Article 39A regarding free legal aid.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only ✓
C) 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
Source Information
PIB (Ministry of Law and Justice)
