Parliamentary Committee suggests mandatory pro bono work for advocates, adequate compensation for legal aid lawyers

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice chaired by Sushil Kumar Modi has submitted a report on Review of the working of legal aid under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987..The Committee has put forth a series of recommendations aimed at improving the efficacy and reach of legal services in India..It called for pro bono work to be made mandatory for lawyers to ensure access to justice for all segments of society. Accordingly, it has called upon the Bar Council of India (BCI) to mandate every lawyer to undertake at least one pro bono case annually to secure any relief fund from All India/State Bar Council.Furthermore, the Committee has proposed the formation of panels of designated Senior Advocates in High Courts and the Supreme Court to engage in pro bono work. It has also suggested encouraging advocates engaging in pro bono work by giving them merit certificates which can be taken into consideration for assessing their merit when they apply to be law officers or judges..The report also highlighted the importance of adequate compensation for lawyers providing legal aid services, urging NALSA to ensure fair remuneration to sustain their motivation and commitment..The report urged the Central government to launch an extensive mass media campaign to educate the eligible population about legal aid avenues available for them to get justice.It also recommended that the funds allocated to the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) be substantially increased in order to carry out its activities..Additionally, the Committee has highlighted the critical role of NALSA in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly undertrial prisoners. It has underscored the need for NALSA to study and evaluate cases of prolonged pre-trial detention and assist such individuals on a priority basis. Furthermore, recognizing the expanding mandate of NALSA, the Committee has recommended an increase in sanctioned staff positions to effectively fulfill its objectives..The report also addresses challenges within the legal aid framework, including the underutilization of para-legal volunteers (PLVs) and the need for streamlined processes in Lok Adalats.To enhance PLV engagement, the Committee has recommended comprehensive training, adequate resources, and recognition from legal authorities. Moreover, it has called for increased access to legal aid for prisoners, advocating for centralized application processes to expedite legal remedies..[Read Report]