Srinagar: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar organized a meeting of the Legal Services Unit for Children (LSUC), under the chairmanship of Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar,Tasleem Arief and under the supervision of Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar, Sajad-ur-Rehman.
The meeting was chaired by Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar and was attended by Associate Professor, National Law University Delhi, Dr. Tasneem Deo, and Technical Consultant (Juvenile Justice), Syed Mujtaba. Members of the Legal Services Unit for Children participated in the session both physically and virtually.
In his address, Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar, emphasized the pivotal role of the Legal Services Authority in safeguarding the rights of children and ensuring that juvenile cases are dealt with in a sensitive and legally sound manner.
He highlighted the need for regular coordination between stakeholders, timely legal intervention, and awareness among parents and guardians to prevent re-offending and promote the rehabilitation of juveniles. He also appreciated the contribution of all members of the Legal Services Unit for Children for their continued efforts in advancing child-centric justice.
During the deliberations, Dr. Tasneem Deo highlighted the importance of adopting effective and child-friendly approaches while dealing with cases involving juveniles. She stressed the significance of continuous capacity-building of legal aid counsels and greater inter-agency coordination for the effective implementation of the Juvenile Justice framework.
The members of the Legal Services Unit for Children actively interacted during the session and discussed various challenges faced while handling juvenile cases. They shared experiences and suggestions aimed at strengthening the delivery of legal aid and ensuring that the rights and welfare of children in conflict with law are effectively protected.
The session concluded with a collective commitment to enhance cooperation between the Legal Services Authority and other departments for ensuring access to justice and rehabilitation of juveniles in accordance with the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act.
