Srinagar, Apr 02: In a collaborative effort, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) of Srinagar and Budgam conducted an enlightening session on Access to Justice at various stages of detention and the Rights of Under-trial Prisoners at the Central Jail in Srinagar.
The program aimed to equip inmates with knowledge about their rights during different phases of the legal process, covering pre-arrest, arrest, and remand scenarios. Key topics included bail, parole, and furlough, with the goal of enabling inmates to navigate the legal system effectively.
Shahrooq Bhat, Deputy Legal Aid Defence Counsel from DLSA Budgam, underscored the importance of seeking legal aid and assistance, particularly during pre-arrest, arrest, and remand stages. He also elucidated the procedures and benefits associated with parole and furlough.
Urba Rashid, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel from DLSA Srinagar, shed light on the rights of under trial prisoners and emphasized the significance of plea bargaining in the criminal justice system. She stressed the necessity for prisoners to be aware of their rights to effectively navigate through the legal complexities.
This initiative marks a crucial step towards empowering incarcerated individuals with knowledge about their legal entitlements and enhancing their access to justice. Both the District Legal Services Authorities of Srinagar and Budgam reaffirm their dedication to providing legal aid to marginalized communities, including prisoners.
The authorities anticipate that such awareness programs will significantly contribute to advancing the cause of justice and ensuring the protection of the rights of under-trial prisoners.