Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called for including rendering of free legal aid as one of the criteria for selection of judges while saying every institution has to evolve with the changes in time.
“When there is recruitment (of judges) can we ask them (candidates) how much time did you devote for providing legal aid to the poor, how many poors have been helped by them. If we incorporate this criterion, then each candidate would take social service on priority,” he said.
Addressing a gathering of top judges, law officers and legal experts at the foundation day celebration of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) here, Modi said Lok Adalats and legal aids could become more successful with such change in approach.
“No institution can remain static. Changes are inevitable in tune with the times. There is a need to change the way we think--old things are best and that is why we will not lay our hands on them is not the way,” the prime minister said.
In his speech, he stressed on ensuring justice to all while praising the NALSA for extending free legal services to millions of people. Modi added “justice for all” to his slogan of “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas (Together with all, Development for all).”
“I believe in Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and with that there must be Sabka Nyay,” he said, calling for research by law universities on Lok Adalats. He said the burden on the judiciary can be lowered and the quality of justice can be made through collective effort.
Published 09 November 2015, 19:22 IST