Survey of tribes, backward classed to be undertaken

Sirsi: The door-to-door legal awareness programme was launched here on Wednesday, where survey of tribes, backward community and others will be undertaken.

More than 700 people from different walks of life including Law College students, anganwadi workers, police, forest department and advocates will be conducting the survey.

The programme was launched by District Additional Court Judge S N Sunagar at Gosavi Colony in Sirsi on Wednesday.

The programme was organised jointly by the District Legal Service Authority, District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, Police Department and Information Department.

Speaking after inaugurating the programme, he said that knowledge of law is essential for everyone in the society to lead a respectful and self-esteemed life. He said, if every individual is aware of his right and duties, anti-social elements could be avoided and a ‘crime-free’ society could be built.

In this regard, the advocates, judges, law graduates, and judicial officials have to create legal awareness among the people, he added.

The judge said, though the government both the Centre and the State are launching series of welfare programmes for the people of backward communities and the poor, but the schemes have not reached them. Middlemen menace is on the rise. Besides, people are unaware of the pro-people schemes and law. Hence, the plan of holding this programme was mooted.

During the programme, free legal advice would be given to the people and enlighten them on provision in law.

On the occasion, the judge visited several houses near Maruthi temple and educated them on their rights and learnt their problems. Majority of the people complained on lack of basic facilities, UGD problems, no street lights, regularisation of houses, setting up of a police out post, confusion in getting Aadhar card and ration card, delay in getting pension for senior citizen and the like.

The judge said, the law students would record the problems and after preparing a comprehensive report, submit it to the department concerned. If any person is deprived of facilities and his rights, free legal aid too will be given, the judge added.

Senior Civil Court Judge Savithri Kujji said that SC/ST and OBC members should not hesitate to take legal services. There are several advocates who are willing to provide them assistance.