Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 9: The District Legal Services Authority, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, organized a programme as part of observance of Legal Services Day today at Beodnabad Gram Panchayat. The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by the rendering of Vande Mataram to mark the 150th year of its composition, which is being nationally commemorated under the initiative inaugurated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.
The event was graced by Shri Sudhir Kumar, Ld. District Judge & Chairman, DLSA, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Shri Jayanta Mukherjee, Ld. Judicial Magistrate First Class (2nd Court), Port Blair & Principal Magistrate, Juvenile Justice Board, South Andaman.
During the programme, Shri Sudhir Kumar addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of mental well-being, prevention of suicide, and the shared responsibility of society in ensuring the safety and care of children. He also explained in detail the role and functioning of the District Legal Services Authority and informed the participants about the availability of Free Legal Aid, including how eligible persons can approach the DLSA to obtain legal assistance without any cost.
Shri Jayanta Mukherjee delivered an informative session on the POCSO Act, highlighting the legal protections available for children, and also spoke on cyber-crime awareness, advising the participants to remain vigilant while using digital platforms to avoid fraud and exploitation.
Awareness sessions were further conducted on the following topics:
• Free Legal Aid Services and Assistance provided by DLSA.
• Protection of Children under the POCSO Act & safeguarding Child Rights.
• Cyber Crime Awareness and Prevention of Online Frauds.
Smti. Saraswati Narayan, National General Secretary & State President, IHRCCO, addressed the participants and highlighted the importance of community awareness and legal empowerment.
Shri Paramashivam, Pradhan, Beodnabad Gram Panchayat, and Shri Bhoominathan, Up-Adhyaksh, Zilla Parishad, were also present. During the interactive session, villagers raised several queries which were answered by the dignitaries.
The programme witnessed active participation from the local community and was organized in collaboration with IHRCCO.