June 2024

Srinagar 29/June/2024: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar today in collaboration with School Education Department organized an awareness programs on Protection of Women from Domestic Violence and Dowry and Maintenance, at Government Girls Higher Secondary School Sonwar Srinagar. The awareness programme was held under the able guidance of Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Chairman of District Legal Services Authority Srinagar (PDJ, Srinagar), aimed to educate students and staff members about the legal provisions and remedies available to women who are victims of domestic violence, dowry, and maintenance.
The program was attended by the principal, staff members of the Govt. Girls Higher Secondary School Sonwar Srinagar., officials, panel lawyers, & Para-legal volunteers of the District Legal Services Authority, Srinagar and the students enthusiastically participated in the programme.
The main objective of the programme was to create awareness about the legal rights and remedies available to women who are victims of domestic violence, dowry, and maintenance. The programme also aimed to empower women to take action against such violence and to seek legal recourse when needed.
Adv. Laila Khalid emphasized the need for women to be aware of their legal rights and to report incidents of domestic violence and dowry harassment to the authorities. She also emphasized about the legal provisions and remedies available to women under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, , and the Dowry Prohibition. She urged the students and staff members to spread awareness about these laws and to support women who are victims of domestic violence and dowry harassment.
Ms. Sania Mushtaq highlighted the importance of providing support and counseling to women who are victims of domestic violence and dowry harassment. She emphasized the need for creating a society that is free from domestic violence and dowry harassment.
The programme was well-received by the students and staff members, who appreciated the efforts of the DLSA Srinagar in organizing such an informative and awareness-generating programme.

As part of the plan of action of J&K Legal Services Authority, for the month of June 2024, a review meeting was conducted by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar with Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) on 28th June 2024, under the able guidance of Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Chairman of District Legal Services Authority Srinagar (PDJ, Srinagar), to ensure the effective implementation of legal services programmes in the district.
The meeting was chaired by Secretary, DLSA Srinagar, Mr. Jahangir Ahmed Bakshi, who emphasized the importance of Para Legal Volunteers in the implementation of legal services programmes at the grassroots level. The meeting was attended by the Officials and PLVS of DLSA Srinagar.
During the meeting, Mr. Jahangir Ahmed Bakshi reviewed the progress of legal services programmes in the district and discussed the challenges faced by the PLVs in the implementation of these programmes. He emphasized the need for effective coordination and collaboration between the District Legal Services Authority Srinagar, Para Legal Volunteers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of legal services programmes reach the marginalized and vulnerable sections of society.

The Secretary DLSA Srinagar also highlighted the importance of creating awareness about the legal services programmes among the general public, particularly in rural and far-flung areas. He urged the PLVs to work tirelessly to identify and reach out to the beneficiaries of these programmes, including women, children, and persons with disabilities.
The meeting also discussed the ways and means to strengthen the capacity of PLVs to provide effective legal aid and assistance to the needy. He also assured the PLVs of all possible support and assistance from the DLSA to enable them to discharge their duties effectively.
The review meeting was a significant step towards ensuring that the legal services programmes in the district are implemented effectively, and the benefits of these programmes reach the intended beneficiaries.

Srinagar 27/June/2024: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar today in collaboration with School Education Department organized an awareness programs on Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) also known as POSH Act 2013, at Government Girls Higher Secondary School Nowhatta Srinagar . The awareness programme was held under the able guidance of Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Chairman of District Legal Services Authority Srinagar (PDJ, Srinagar), aimed to educate students, teachers, and staff members about the provisions and importance of the POSH Act 2013.
The program was attended by the principal, staff members of the Govt. Girls Higher Secondary School Nowhatta Srinagar, officials, panel lawyers, & Para-legal volunteers of the District Legal Services Authority, Srinagar and the students enthusiastically participated in the programme.
Ms. Sunila (JLA) & Adv. Suhaila Ali Panel Lawyer of DLSA Srinagar highlighted the key aspects of the Act, including the definition of sexual harassment, the complaint mechanism, and the role of the Internal Complaints Committee. They also emphasized “The POSH Act 2013 is a significant legislation that aims to protect women from sexual harassment at the workplace. It is essential for all institutions, including educational institutions, to have a robust mechanism in place to prevent and address sexual harassment. We must work together to create a culture of respect and dignity, where women feel safe and empowered to report any incidents of harassment.”
The program was well-received by the students and teachers, who actively participated in the discussion and asked questions to clarify their doubts. The awareness program was an initiative to promote a culture of respect and equality in educational institutions and workplaces, and to empower women to report any instances of sexual harassment. The program also aimed to sensitize the participants about their rights and responsibilities under the POSH Act 2013.
District Legal Services Authority, Srinagar, is committed to promoting legal awareness and literacy among the masses, and this program is a step towards achieving this goal.

Srinagar, June 26, 2024: On the occasion of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, J&K Legal Services Authority in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar and Burn Hall School, Gupkar Road Srinagar, organized a transformative awareness program titled “Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.”
The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Justice Tashi Rabstan, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority accompanied by Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary and Muzamil Hayat Kabli, Under Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority. The Chief Guest and dignitaries were warmly received by Fr. Stalin Raja, Principal, Burn Hall School, Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi, Secretary, DLSA Srinagar, Mr. Feroz Ahmad, Secretary, Burn Hall School, and other staff members of the school.
In his presidential address, Justice Tashi Rabstan eloquently spoke about the devastating impacts of drug abuse and underlined the need for a united fight against this social evil. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness, particularly among the youth, to eradicate drug abuse from its roots. “We must collectively create the right awareness among the masses, especially the younger generations, to combat the menace of drug abuse. It’s not just a legal issue but a social responsibility that we must all shoulder,” he stated. According to Justice Tashi, teachers, parents and elderly people in the society play an important role in bringing back the youth to the mainstream and out of the clutches of this menace which is rotting our future generation.
In his welcome address, Fr. Stalin Raja, highlighted the necessity of creating the right awareness among the younger generations. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Justice Tashi for choosing his institution to organise this awareness programme on a day having international importance. He further said that the unwavering commitment of Legal Services Institutions across the UT of J&K to combat the drug menace and spreading awareness is a crucial initiative, which is appreciable.
The program featured an insightful and detailed presentation by Dr. Yuman Kawoos, Assistant Professor, IMHANS, Kashmir, who discussed the complexities of drug abuse and effective stress management techniques. Her presentation provided valuable information and strategies for dealing with addiction and its psychological impacts.
Adding to the depth of the event, Insha Malik, Counsellor, Burn Hall School, delivered an enlightening address on substance abuse and the critical role of counsellors in providing support and guidance to those affected this social evil. Her speech highlighted practical approaches to prevention and intervention, stressing the importance of early detection and continuous support.
A poignant skit performed by law students and advocates depicted the harmful effects of substance abuse on individuals, families and society, which was the highlight of the event. This moving performance underscored the urgent need for collective action and legal enforcement to tackle drug-related issues. The program was a significant step towards fostering a drug-free society and showcased the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in addressing this critical issue.

Srinagar, June 24, 2024: Justice Tashi Rabstan, Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority accompanied by Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, who is also holding the charge of Member Secretary, Juvenile Justice Committee, High Court of J&K and Ladakh today visited “Palaash” (Children Home for Boys) and “Pareesha” (Children Home for Girls) at Nishat, Srinagar in the afternoon to take stock of the improvements made in these Homes since his previous visit.
On his arrival at Pareesha, Justice Tashi was accorded warm welcome by Jahangir Bakshi, Secretary, DLSA, Srinagar, Satinder Kour, Superintendent, Pareesha and staff of the homes. Justice Tashi interacted with 12 girls staying there and enquired about their studies and other activities of interest. The Superintendent Pareesha informed Justice Tashi about the various upgraded facilities provided at Pareesha like improved Computer room, open gym, facility of evening Tutor and proposal for installation of solar panel to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
The Home for Boys “Palash” situated adjoining to Pareesha having a capacity of 50 children was also inspected where 37 boys of different age groups were present. Similar facilities were available in the said Home. During an interaction with the children both at “Palaash” and “Pareesha”, Justice Tashi was informed by the children that they are being provided with nutritious and satisfactory meals. They further informed that they are being provided with books as well as sports equipment. However, the boys expressed the requirement of sportswear.
Regarding the visit of Medical officer Justice Tashi was informed that the doctor visits once a month upon which Justice Tashi expressed that the number of visits by the doctors need to be increased. He expressed satisfaction about the facilities and amenities being provided to the Children. On the occasion, the children of both the Homes volunteered to showcase their talent and sang songs and poems.
Justice Tashi appreciated the efforts of Social Welfare Department in providing satisfactory meals to the children besides maintaining cleanliness and required standard of living. This visit underscored the commitment of the J&K Legal Services Authority and the Social Welfare Department to the welfare of children in institutional care, ensuring they receive the necessary support and opportunities for their development.

Srinagar, June 21, 2024: The J&K Legal Services Authority, under the aegis of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) organized the State Conference of District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) of UTs of J&K and Ladakh at J&K Judicial Academy, Srinagar.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Senior-Most Judge, Supreme Court of India and Executive Chairman, NALSA presided over the conference in the august presence of Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Patron-in Chief, J&K and Ladakh Legal Services Authorities.
Justice Tashi Rabstan, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority along with Justice Atul Sreedharan, Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Executive Chairman, Ladakh Legal Services Authority and Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Chairperson, Governing Committee, J&K Judicial Academy were the guests of honour.
Other Judges of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh who were also present physically and virtually include Justice Sindhu Sharma, Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Justice V.C. Koul, Justice Sanjay Dhar, Justice Puneet Gupta, Justice Javed Iqbal Wani, Justice Mohammad Akram Chowdhary, Justice Rahul Bharti, Justice Moksha Khajuria Kazmi, Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, Justice Rajesh Sekhri and Justice Mohd. Yousuf Wani.

The Conference was split into two sessions, first session focused on interaction of Justice Khanna with the Judges of High Court and district judiciary of UT of J&K and Ladakh and the second session dealt with the working of Legal Services Institutions in the UTs of J&K and Ladakh.
In his presidential address Justice Khanna highlighted the role of District Judiciary in coming to the rescue of poor litigants as they are the first point of contact to them for resolution of their issues and have direct connect with people at the grass root level. He further said that there is a misconception in the district judiciary regarding their powers in upholding the constitutional rights of a citizen. Justice Khanna emphasized that confidence reposed by the society in the Indian Judicial system is only because of fair and impartial approach adopted by the judges of district judiciary while dispensing justice which needs to be strengthened further. Commenting upon the working of legal services institutions Justice Khanna said that no where in the world, such a robust system exists where to prosecute a case and to defend the same, lawyers on government expense are provided to both the litigating parties, which is a unique feature in India. He appreciated the role of PLVs in reaching out to the legal aid seeker in every nook and corner of a region and urged the authorities to increase their number for ensuring outreach to remotest corner of UT of J&K.
Justice N. Kotiswar Singh in his address while welcoming the Chief Guest said that the judges of UTs of J&K and Ladakh are fortunate to have with them such a legal luminary not only to interact with them but also to share his rich experiences which shall guide them in dispensing justice to the litigants. He further said that Justice Khanna’s compassion for the jail inmates can be gauged from that fact that a couple of days ago, he visited the central jail, Srinagar not only to take stock of their living conditions but also to interact with them in order to understand the issues confronting them with regard to legal aid schemes and their benefits.
Jusitce Tashi Rabstan in his address gave an overview of the working of legal services institutions in the UT of Jammu & Kashmir and presented facts and figures showing the achievements. He informed the chief guest that efforts are being made to upgrade the infrastructure of legal service institutions and a roadmap has been prepared for computerization of legal aid clinics and their linking with each other to ensure prompt disposal of applications received in such clinics. He also appreciated the dedication with which the legal services institutions are working in UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh which is not only commendable but also need to be applauded.
Justice Atul Sreedharan while proposing vote of thanks expressed gratitude to justice Khanna for sparing valuable time during vacations to interact with judges and other stake holders involved in ensuring access to justice for all.
Those who attended the program include Y.P Bourney, Director J&K Judicial Academy, M.K. Sharma Principal Secretary to Chief Justice, Harshita Mishra OSD to Executive Chairman NALSA, Officers of High Court Registry, Judges of district Judiciary, Trainee Judges, LADCs, Penal Lawyers, PLVs, staff of J&K Legal Services Authority, DLSA, Srinagar and J&K Judicial Academy.
Shahzad Azeem Registrar General conducted the proceedings during the first session whereas Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary, J&K Legal services Authority conducted the proceedings of second session.

The event was graced by the presence of Hon’ble Pr. District and Sessions Judge (Chairman DLSA) Srinagar & the esteemed presence of all the Learned Judicial Officers of the District Court, Srinagar, added a different aura to the event, making it a memorable one.

The main aim of observing International Yoga Day was to promote the importance of yoga in maintaining physical and mental well-being, particularly among the legal fraternity and the general public. The event aimed to create awareness about the benefits of yoga in reducing stress, improving health, and increasing productivity.

The program commenced with a yoga demonstration by trained instructors, followed by a mass yoga session, where participants from all walks of life, including Administrative Staff, Judicial Staff, of District Court Srinagar, lawyers, officials, Panel Lawyers, Legal Aid Defence Counsels and Para Legal Volunteers of DLSA Srinagar enthusiastically participated. The event also featured a lecture on the benefits of yoga and its relevance in today’s fast-paced life.

Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Pr. District and Sessions Judge, emphasized the significance of yoga in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and encouraged everyone to make yoga a part of their daily routine. The Learned Judicial Officers of the District Court, Srinagar, also expressed their support for the initiative and appreciated the efforts of the District Legal Services Authority, Srinagar, in organizing the event.
The District Legal Services Authority, Srinagar, expressed its gratitude to all the participants, and supporters who made this event, a grand success.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 20: The J&K Sports Council Football Academy trainee Maroof Shafi has been selected for the FIFA-AIFF Academy selection trials based on his outstanding performance.

This was informed through a communication by the All India Football Federation to various State/UTs.

Meanwhile, it was also informed that the trials for the FIFA-AIFF Academy will take place in Odisha Football Academy, 7th Battalion, Gajapati Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751013, from 22nd, June to 25th June, 2024. Selected players are directed to report on June 21st, 2024 at the venue, the letter reads.

Nuzhat Gul, Secretary JKSC, congratulated Maroof, who hails from Budgam District, on his selection for the FIFA-AIFF Academy Trials in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication to the game of football, she added.

After graduating from SCFA, Maroof has been associated with various other teams as well.

In keeping with the JKSC’s objective, we aim more and more of our local footballers in the National Teams as well as in the top football clubs of the world, said Nuzhat.

It is worth mentioning that over the years JKSC Football Academy has produced around 13 players for Indian National Teams and Professional Clubs of the country.

KUPWARA, JUNE 20: The District Development Commissioner (DDC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan Thursday chaired a meeting here to review progress on National Highway- 701, RKCTC (Rafiabad-Kupwara-Chowkibal-Trehgam-Chamkote) National Highway project.

The deliberations focused on inter-departmental coordination, submission of draft awards, Section 3D, section 3G, utility shifting, ROW issues and resolving bottlenecks for smooth execution of this important road project.

The DDC meticulously reviewed the status of Langate Bye-Pass, Kupwara Bye-Pass, Trehgam Bye-Pass and curve improvement at Braripora, Vodhpora, Nutnoosa, Drugmulla, Bomhama, Gulgam and Hiri and directed the concerned departments to ramp up the process and complete it within the stipulated time frame.

She stressed the need for close coordination among the stakeholder departments and agencies involved in the execution of the NH-701, RKCTC project. The DC directed the officers to work in a complete synergy, so that this crucial national highway project is completed without any delay.

She directed the concerned departments to follow the timelines strictly and submit the draft awards and other necessary requirements within their timeframe.

The DDC directed the Beacon authorities to video graph the joint surveys, alignments and share ROW maps and copies of utility shifting projects with the Revenue officers.

She emphasized the concerned officers to be meticulous and take the services of the best teams as there is no scope of any error in this vital road project.

She stressed upon the revenue officers to keep a close vigil on the acquired land for the highway project so that it is not encroached upon.

Earlier, Officer Commanding 109, RCC Beacon, V.V Sharma appraising the chair said that the total length of the NH-701, RKCTC Project is 119 kms. Under Package-1, from Delina to Guglosa 51- kms of the highway project has been approved, most portion of the land for the road project under Package -1 has been acquired and tender has been allotted.

From Gugloosa to Chamkote, remaining 68- kms of the national highway length area has been sanctioned by MoRT&H under Package-2 for which DPR formulation is underway.

The meeting was attended by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Handwara, Aziz Ahmad Rather; ACR Kupwara, SDM Karnah, Executive Engineers, OC- Beacon, concerned Tehsildars, Chief Horticulture Officer Kupwara and other concerned officers.

KISHTWAR, JUNE 18: The three-day National Convention on Peace and Harmony, organized by the National Youth Project in collaboration with Social Reform and Charitable Organisation concluded today at the Ashiana Complex in Kishtwar.

The convention, which began on June 15 upto 17 June, saw the participation of more than 32 representatives from various states, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by several dignitaries including Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Kishtwar Mahmud Anwar Alnasir, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Dr. Devansh Yadav, and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kishtwar Abdul Qayoom.

The event was also attended by President of the Social Reform and Charitable Organisation, Sanjeev Parihar; Senior Vice President SRCO Advocate Kuldeep Sharma along with local youth, prominent personalities from Kishtwar, and the residents of Ashiana.

The inaugural session featured insightful discourses on the teachings and youth initiatives championed by S. N. Subba Rao, the founder of the National Youth Project.

The session also shed light on the philosophies and contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave, emphasizing their roles in promoting peace and harmony and mobilizing youth for social change.

Keynote speakers, including Ramesh Bhaya, trustee of Vinoba Seva Ashram in Bartara, Shahajahanpur; Ajay Pandey, advisor to the National Youth Project; Suresh Rathi; R. C. Gupta; Jagdish Chowdhary; and Sanjay Rai.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav, in his address, stressed the importance of involving Kishtwar’s youth in the National Youth Project to channel their energy towards constructive endeavors. He underscored the potential of youth in contributing to the district’s development and emphasized the need for such initiatives to harness their capabilities effectively.

Later, a Prabhat Pheri was organized by representatives from the National Youth Project, alongside local youths and residents of Ashiana from Dak Bungalow to Kokila Chowk, Kuleed. This was followed by a cleanliness drive at Chowgan Ground, reinforcing the message of community service and environmental consciousness.

The convention also included a meeting at Asraria Public High School and in the Sarthal area, where representatives of the National Youth Project engaged with local youth and prominent individuals providing valuable opportunities for dialogue and the exchange of ideas, further strengthening the community’s commitment to peace and harmony.

As the convention concluded, participants expressed their appreciation for the enriching experience and the valuable insights gained.