In Lok Adalat, 14 prisoners were released from Bhondsi Jail

Fourteen inmates of Bhondsi District Jail, accused of petty crimes ranging from theft, car hijacking to assault, were released after a special hearing during the Lok Adalat on Saturday, officials said. The prisoners pleaded guilty and Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Ramesh Chandra ordered their immediate release, citing the duration of their imprisonment and the minor nature of their crimes.

“This initiative ensures timely hearings for inmates and we conduct such Lok Adalats every two to three months,” Chandra said. During his visit, he also inspected the prison premises and familiarized himself with the conditions there.

The Lok Adalat, organized by Ramesh Chandra, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM), heard 17 cases. According to officials, 11 of them concerned minor crimes, and 14 prisoners who pleaded guilty to the charges were released on the spot, while the remaining six cases were discontinued.

A new NALSA chairman was appointed

In this regard, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai of the Supreme Court has been appointed as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). Meanwhile, Justice Surya Kant has been appointed as the Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Commission (SCLSC), both appointments being made by President Draupadi Murmu under the Legal Services Authority Act, 1987. Of course, both NALSA and SCLSC can run Lok Adalats , in accordance with the Legal Services Bodies Act 1987

Commenting on Justice Gavai’s appointment, CJM Chandra said: “Judge Gavai’s leadership will improve access to justice for economically weaker sections of society and raise public awareness of rights. “Under his leadership, NALSA will work towards ensuring justice for disadvantaged people and empowering citizens to know about their legal entitlements.”