Special Workshop on the Importance of PLVs in Muzaffarpur: District Judge Shweta Kumari Singh States — Para Legal Volunteers Play a Vital Role in Securing Legal Equality for Deprived Sections; Event Held at SKJ Law College — Detailed Report
An important legal awareness program was organized at SKJ Law College in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, to highlight the role and importance of Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs). Present as the chief guest at the event, District Judge Shweta Kumari Singh commended the work of PLVs, stating that these volunteers act as a strong bridge in delivering justice to the deprived, exploited, and suffering sections standing at the very bottom of society. The District Judge made it clear that the primary objective of PLVs is to spread legal literacy in society and make every citizen aware of their constitutional rights.
Background and Objective of the Program
Para Legal Volunteers are appointed by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA) to provide free legal aid to remote and backward rural areas and neglected sections of society.
Access to Justice for All: The main objective of this special workshop was to explain to law students and new volunteers how a PLV can become an instrument of change in society.
Awareness of Legal Rights: Poor and helpless people in society are unaware of the complex procedures of courts, and in such situations, PLVs help them obtain proper legal advice and assistance.
Address by District Judge Shweta Kumari Singh
Addressing the program, District Judge Shweta Kumari Singh shed light on the significance of PLVs and shared several important insights.
Legal Equality for the Deprived: In her address, the District Judge stated, "Every citizen has been granted the right to equality by the Constitution, but due to a lack of awareness, many people remain deprived of their rights even today. In such a scenario, Para Legal Volunteers play an extremely crucial role in securing legal equality and justice for the last person in society."
True Social Workers: She noted that being a PLV is not merely a position, but a medium of social service where selfless assistance is provided to resolve people's legal complications. She motivated law students to step forward and work actively in this direction.
Legal Deliberations at SKJ Law College
The seminar, held at Muzaffarpur's prestigious SKJ Law College, featured insights and discussions from college professors, law students, and several judicial officers.
Student Participation: Providing practical knowledge to law students, it was explained how they can utilize their legal education for the betterment of the weaker sections of society.
Training and Methodology: The workshop included detailed discussions on the selection of PLVs, their duties, and ways to deliver government schemes and free legal aid to those in need.
Real-World Role of PLVs in Society
Para Legal Volunteers are considered the backbone of the justice delivery system, serving as a connecting link between the public and the courts.
Important Point: "Where courts and lawyers cannot reach directly, a trained PLV, through their proactive efforts, shows a victim the path to justice."
Mediation: Instead of taking petty domestic or social disputes to police stations or courts, PLVs play a mediating role in resolving them at the local level.
Awareness Campaigns: Their primary task involves organizing village assemblies (chaupals) to spread awareness about the rights of women, children, and laborers.
This workshop held at SKJ Law College in Muzaffarpur is a testament to the fact that the district administration and judiciary are fully committed to enhancing legal awareness in society. This discussion on the importance of PLVs, guided by District Judge Shweta Kumari Singh, not only inspired law students but also strongly reinforced the message of justice and equality in society.
