NALSA Reaches Remotest Corners, But We Can’t Rest On Laurels: Justice Surya Kant

Chief Justice of India-designate and Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority Justice Surya Kant on Sunday said NALSA has transformed into a movement from a statutory body into a symbol

of constitutional empathy, extending to the remotest corners of the nation, but cautioned that “however it’s not time to rest on our laurels.”“When we look at the path that NALSA as an institution has navigated in the decades since its inception, it is clear that it has transformed from an idea into a movement—from a statutory body into a symbol of constitutional empathy. On that note, I can remark with a sense of pride that NALSA’s reach today extends to the remotest corners of the nation, its imprint visible in the lives of those who might otherwise have remained unseen and unheard. However, now is not the time to rest on our laurels. As we look ahead, NALSA’s future lies not merely in expanding its reach, but in deepening its impact—through innovation, technology, and empathetic association,” he said at the valedictory function of the National Conference on Strengthening Legal Aid Delivery Mechanism.“The coming years must be dedicated to consolidating the gains we have made, modernising the frameworks we have built, and forging lasting partnerships with key stakeholders. As we conclude this chapter, it is with great humility I reassure that the leadership of NALSA in future years will remain in the safest hands.”QUOTES T. S. ELIOT“I am confident that NALSA will be infused with renewed energy, insight, and conviction, to reach greater heights of service and impact. While the foundation is strong, the vision enduring, and the spirit unshakeable, let us nonetheless remember that the journey of justice and compassion knows no final destination — there will always be lives to uplift, voices to empower, and hopes to rekindle,” said Justice Kant.The celebrated poet T. S. Eliot so poignantly reminded us:“For last year's words belong to last year's languageAnd next year's words await another voice.And to make an end is to make a beginning,” added Justice Kant.Justice Surya Kant observed that empanelled legal aid counsels are often the first responders in the legal aid ecosystem and emphasised that “to bolster the justice delivery system, we must invest not only in infrastructure and policy, but also in human capital.” Referring to discussions on empowering Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs), Justice Surya Kant said these deliberations were among the most inspiring of the conference. He praised PLVs as “the face of justice in villages, towns, and cities across the country,” noting that they embody both compassion and ingenuity. Rooted in their communities, he said, PLVs serve as a vital bridge between formal legal structures and the lived realities of citizens by spreading awareness, assisting in documentation, and guiding individuals towards the right remedies.