National desk
12 April
Sandeep Dhand
Journalist Research Analysist
A Parliamentary Committee has recommended the establishment of a ‘National Registry’ for lawyers providing free legal aid, in an effort to recognize their contribution and support their career growth. The Standing Committee on Law and Personnel emphasized that such a registry would not only provide formal acknowledgment of their service but also help create opportunities for professional advancement.
The committee expressed concern that despite the potential to significantly expand access to justice for marginalized communities, the use of legal volunteers remains limited. This underutilization persists even though many of these communities are in urgent need of legal support.
In its latest report, which follows up on an earlier one titled “Review of Functioning of Legal Aid under the Legal Services Authorities Act”, the committee observed that more efforts are needed to promote pro bono work across the country. It noted that initiatives are underway to encourage voluntary legal services and to offer financial incentives for lawyers willing to take up such cases.
The committee stressed that integrating these volunteers into a national framework would help build a more robust and inclusive legal aid system. It also recommended that measures be taken to ensure that lawyers engaged in free legal services are trained, supported, and rewarded appropriately.
Additionally, the report highlighted the importance of raising awareness about legal aid programs, especially among vulnerable sections of society, and improving coordination between state legal services authorities and legal institutions.
The proposed registry is seen as a step toward strengthening access to justice and ensuring that pro bono lawyers are not overlooked but instead empowered to continue their crucial work in supporting the rights of the underprivileged.