Nyaya Bandhu Legal Aid program

Why in News?

Union minister of law and justice in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha proceedings described Nyaya Bandhu Legal Aid program is enhancing legal aid in the country.

• Nyaya Bandhu – It is a pro bono legal services (free legal assistance) program to provide free legal aid to eligible marginalized beneficiaries through a mobile application.
• The program registers interested Pro Bono Advocates and connects them with the beneficiaries through the Nyaya Bandhu Application.

Pro bono advocates are legal professionals provide legal services free of charge or at a minimal cost to individuals and organizations unable to afford legal assistance or access legal aid, serving the public good.

• Aim – To create a mechanism for delivering legal advice and assistance to needy beneficiaries across the country.
• Launched & implemented by – Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice.
• Program under - Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice (DISHA) which is being implemented by Department of Justice.
• Eligible beneficiaries – People entitled for free legal aid under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
• Features - A panel of Advocates has also been constituted in 23 High Courts to strengthen institutional mechanism for delivering pro bono legal services to the beneficiary.
  • To instill the spirit of free legal work among law students.
  •  Pro Bono Clubs constituted across 109 law colleges in the country.
• Awareness in remote areas – Through Pro Bono Clubs (PBCs) in the Law schools are engaged in providing community care legal assistance and legal awareness.
• through Common Service Centres (CSCs) in regional languages and via Helpline Toll- free number 14454.

• Impact – Till 30^th June, 2025, approximately, 14888 women beneficiaries have registered under the Nyaya Bandhu App seeking assistance across various problems.

Reference

PIB | Nyaya Bandhu Legal Aid program