SLSA, UT Chandigarh’s vision—that justice is not rationed by wealth, gender, or social status—is rooted in the
constitutional mandate of Article 39A and the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. Its goal is to guarantee equal
access to justice for all, ensuring that no resident of Chandigarh is denied legal support due to poverty,
vulnerability, or disadvantage.
From its institutional structure (High Court patronage, State Legal Services Authority, District Legal Services
Authority, Permanent Lok Adalat, Mediation & Conciliation Centre) to its operational tools (front offices,
empanelled lawyers, para-legal volunteers, awareness campaigns), SLSA Chandigarh works to make justice accessible,
affordable, and inclusive.
MISSION
The mission of SLSA, UT Chandigarh, though not expressed as a rigid list, is evident in its core functions and
programs:
Free Legal Services
- Provides free and competent legal aid through empanelled advocates in civil, criminal, revenue, labour, service, and administrative matters.
- Covers services such as payment of court fees, drafting pleadings, translations, legal representation, expenses of witnesses, and certified copies.
- Eligible categories include: SC/ST communities, women, children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, victims of trafficking, natural or industrial disasters, persons in custody, and individuals with annual income within prescribed limits (currently ₹3 lakhs).
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) through Lok Adalats & Mediation
- Organizes National Lok Adalats, Jail Lok Adalats, and Permanent Lok Adalats (Public Utility Services) to provide speedy and amicable dispute resolution.
- Operates Mediation and Conciliation Centre at Sector-43, District Courts Complex, where trained mediators assist in voluntary settlement of disputes.
- Awards are binding, enforceable, and final—helping reduce backlog, delay, and litigation costs.
Legal Literacy & Awareness
- Conducts legal awareness camps, seminars, and workshops across schools, colleges, villages, colonies, and welfare institutions in Chandigarh.
- Focuses on the rights of women, children, weaker sections, migrant workers, senior citizens, and specially-abled persons.
- Uses media campaigns, publications, and social platforms to spread awareness of free legal aid, victim compensation, and rights under law.
Victim Compensation
- Implements the UT Chandigarh Victim Compensation Scheme, ensuring victims of crime—particularly women, children, and vulnerable groups—receive timely financial support for rehabilitation.
- Coordinates with the District Legal Services Authority for processing and disbursal of compensation.
Capacity Building & Institutional Support
- Conducts training programs for lawyers, para-legal volunteers, and mediators to enhance sensitivity and competence in delivering legal services.
- Maintains Front Offices at ADR buildings and District Courts for walk-in legal advice.
- Operates a 24×7 Toll-Free Legal Advice Helpline (1516) and mobile helpline (+91-7087-112-348) for instant support.
Why SLSA Chandigarh’s Vision & Mission Matter
- Constitutional Mandate in Action: Upholds Article 39A by ensuring equal justice for all residents of Chandigarh.
- Bridge to Justice: Reaches marginalized individuals who otherwise lack access to representation, awareness, or remedies.
- Empowerment through Awareness: Legal literacy builds confidence, reduces exploitation, and promotes fairness.
- Judicial Relief through ADR: Mediation and Lok Adalats reduce pendency and provide binding, low-cost settlements.
- Victim Support & Rehabilitation: Dedicated compensation strengthens social security for vulnerable victims.
- Institutional Sustainability: Training, monitoring, and governance frameworks ensure quality delivery of legal aid.