CJI Gavai Calls For Legal Aid Overhaul: Emphasizes Social Audits & Long-Term Vision

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice BR Gavai, while delivering the valedictory address at the National Conference on “Strengthening Legal Aid Delivery Mechanisms,” called for a structural transformation of India’s legal aid framework.

He urged the Legal Services Authorities to adopt a long-term vision that measures success through real-world outcomes rather than mere intentions or statistics.

Justice Gavai emphasised that the legal aid movement must embrace a culture of accountability and evaluation.

He proposed that Legal Services Authorities collaborate with academic institutions to conduct regular social audits.

These audits will ensure progress remains data-driven and grounded in beneficiaries’ real experiences.

The CJI addressed the issue of discontinuity caused by frequent changes in leadership.

He suggested forming Advisory Committees at both NALSA and State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs).

These committees will include current and future executive chairpersons. They will meet quarterly to ensure long-term projects continue seamlessly and preserve institutional memory.

Justice Gavai urged judicial officers working with Legal Services Authorities to change their judicial mindset.

CJI Seeks Overhaul of Legal Aid System

He asked them to adopt an approach rooted in empathy and service.

“We do not speak from the Bench; we speak as part of the community,” he said, highlighting his own experiences visiting conflict-affected areas like Manipur to understand citizens’ realities firsthand.

The CJI strongly advocated for the welfare and dignity of paralegal volunteers, panel lawyers, and legal aid defence counsel.

Justice Gavai insisted that authorities must release their honorariums and payments promptly.

He recalled his tenure as Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee.

Furthermore, he introduced a direct credit system to ensure the timely disbursal of dues.

CJI Gavai emphasised the need for continuous training and mental health support for legal aid workers.

He said they often serve in challenging environments such as prisons and marginalised communities.

Justice Gavai congratulated Justice Surya Kant and NALSA for organising the successful two-day conference.

He described the legal aid movement as “one of the finest expressions of our Constitution’s soul.”

Concluding his address, he announced the launch of the LADM & C digital platform, aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and coordination within the legal aid delivery system.

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