Chandigarh: Bar associations opposes implementation of LADC

Chandigarh, Jul 23 (PTI) The Joint Action Committee of Bar Associations of Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh on Thursday opposed the implementation of the Legal Aid Defence Counsel system, alleging that it adversely affects the interests of practising advocates and the existing legal aid framework.

Addressing a press conference here, presidents and secretaries of various Bar Associations expressed concern over the functioning of the LADC scheme and demanded an immediate review of the policy.

The committee urged the authorities to hold detailed consultations with representatives of the Bar Associations before taking any further decision on the scheme.

The office-bearers said they support the objective of providing quality legal aid to deserving and

needy litigants but maintained that any such mechanism should protect the interests of advocates while ensuring transparency and fairness in its implementation.

The Joint Action Committee said its democratic agitation would continue until its concerns and demands are addressed.

It also appealed to the judiciary and the government to initiate meaningful dialogue with representatives of the Bar.

Among those present were Gyan Singh Mungo of the Nabha Bar Association and presidents and secretaries of various Bar Associations from Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh.

Advocate Gurbhej Singh reiterated the committee’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of advocates while ensuring equal access to justice for deserving citizens.

The LADC System is an initiative of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) to provide free legal representation to economically weaker accused persons in criminal cases. Under this system, full-time Legal Aid Defense Counsels are appointed through the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) to represent eligible beneficiaries before courts, prompting concerns from the Bar Associations in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh that it could adversely affect the independence of the legal profession and weaken the institutional role of the Bar. PTI VSD SHS