Nyaya Bandhu Programme Marks Significant Progress in Pro Bono Legal Services Across India

New Delhi: In a significant development, the Government’s Nyaya Bandhu (Pro-Bono Legal Services) initiative, launched in 2017, has made remarkable strides in promoting pro bono legal services across the country. The program aims to establish a dispensation framework for such services and foster a culture of pro bono legal support.

As of January 31, 2024, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Law and Justice, Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, provided an update on the program’s achievements in a written reply in Lok Sabha.

One of the key features of Nyaya Bandhu is its mobile application, available on Android, iOS, and the UMANG platform, providing a user-friendly interface for both applicants and lawyers to register and engage with the program.

According to the latest data, a total of 10,779 Pro Bono advocates have registered under the Nyaya Bandhu program. These advocates hail from 27 States/Union Territory Bar Councils, demonstrating the program’s widespread acceptance and engagement across the nation.

Furthermore, beneficiaries seeking legal assistance have registered a total of 3,157 cases under the Nyaya Bandhu program. This indicates the program’s effectiveness in connecting those in need with qualified pro bono lawyers who are ready to offer their services.

The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering a legal system that is more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that individuals with limited resources can still access quality legal representation. The Nyaya Bandhu initiative aligns with the government’s broader goal of enhancing access to justice and bridging gaps in legal services.

As the program continues to grow and make a positive impact, the government remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that empower individuals with legal aid, reinforcing the principles of justice and equality for all citizens. The success of Nyaya Bandhu reflects the collaborative efforts of the legal community, the government, and the beneficiaries who have benefited from this pioneering pro bono legal services program.