What is Tele Law?
Tele law means the use of information and communication technologies for the provision of information and legal advice. This electronic interaction between lawyers and individuals would take place through the videoconferencing infrastructure available in the CSCs.
The concept of Télé-Droit is to facilitate the provision of legal advice through a panel of eminent attorneys from the State Legal Services Authorities (SALSA) and CSC. And also, the project begins to connect citizens with lawyers through video conferencing facilities by paralegal volunteers stationed in 50,000 identified CHCs.
Key Points of Tele Law
About: The Tele law program was launched by the Ministry of Law and Justice in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launched in 2017 to handle cases in the pre-litigation phase.
Connect lawyers with litigants: This service uses video conferencing facilities and telephone services to connect lawyers with litigants who need legal advice. And also, this service aims to reach people in need, especially marginalized and disadvantaged people.
Shared Service Centers: Under this program, innovative videoconferencing technology, telephone/instant call facilities available in the vast network of Common Service Centers at the Panchayat level are used to connect poorly. And also, it oppressed groups and communities and vulnerable and do Panel lawyers for seeking timely and valuable legal advice.
Pros: The Tele Law service allows anyone to seek legal advice without wasting time or money. And also, the service is free for those entitled to free legal assistance, as mentioned in section 12 of the Legal Services Authority Act 1987. For all others, a nominal fee is charged.
According to a recent report titled “Quality of Legal Representation: An Empirical Analysis of Free Legal Aid Services in India.” Most people eligible for the free legal aid system see the service as an option only when they cannot pay for it a private lawyer.
Supports the SDGs: It can note that this initiative is in line with Sustainable Development Goal-16. Which aims to “Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development. And also, it provides access to justice for all and build effective institutions, responsible and inclusive at all levels. “.
Scheme of Tele Law
As part of the program, a portal called “Tele law” will launch. Which will be available on the entire network of Common Service Centers (CSC).
“Tele-Law” will allow individuals to seek legal advice from lawyers through video conferencing available at Common Service Centers (CSCs).
In addition, law school clinics, district legal services authorities, volunteer service providers. And also, non-governmental organizations working on legal aid and empowerment can also connect through CHCs anywhere and. At all times to strengthen access to justice for marginalized communities.
The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) will provide a panel of attorneys from state capitals, who will be available by video conference to provide legal advice. And also, guidance to applicants at the 1,000 Common Service Centers (CSCs).
As part of this program, each Common Service Center (CSC) will hire a Legal Volunteer (PLV), who will be the first point of contact for rural citizens. And also, it helps them understand legal issues, explain the advice provided by lawyers. And also, assist in additional actions required in cases advised by the lawyer.
A trained POS will be available at a CHC for ten days a month as part of the program. These POS will assist the claimant in contacting an attorney via CSC’s video conferencing service. And also, help track claimant cases and complaints and maintain a record.
They will also forward the retained records to the district legal services authority weekly.
Am I Eligible for Free Legal Advice through Tele Law?
Yes, if you are eligible under section 12 of the LSA of 1987. It includes women, children, persons belonging to recognized caste and tribe, victims of trafficking, persons with mental illnesses. And also, various disabilities, victims of natural disasters / ethnic violence, non-union sector workers / industrial workers, current and also low-income people.
Where can I File a Complaint or Non-Suggestion Regarding the Tele Law?
Yes, you can send your complaint or any suggestion by email to telelaw.grievance@csc.gov.in or help.tele-law@gmail.com
Call us at -011 -23074401/23070627
Conclusion
Tele law took a new step on October 30, 2020, by providing legal advice to 4 million beneficiaries through the Common Services Centers.
The Common Services Center (CSC) program is an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Informatics (MeitY). Which serves as access points for providing various electronic services to Indian villages. Thus contributing to a digital and financially inclusive society.