NALSA (Child Friendly Legal Services to Children and their Protection) Scheme, 2015
Beneficiary:
The scheme primarily targets children in conflict with the law and children in need of care and protection, including victims of abuse, trafficking, child labor, and those in institutional care. It also supports juvenile justice stakeholders such as panel lawyers, para-legal volunteers (PLVs), police officers, child welfare committees (CWCs), and juvenile justice boards (JJBs), by equipping them with training and resources to deliver child-sensitive legal services.
Benefits:
Children are entitled to free and competent legal aid under this scheme, as mandated by the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. The scheme ensures: Legal representation at all stages of proceedings. Establishment of Legal Services Clinics at JJBs and CWCs. Deployment of trained panel lawyers and PLVs. Coordination with shelter homes, observation homes, and child protection units. Awareness programs, legal literacy clubs in schools, and outreach through media. Regular monitoring of institutions to ensure child-friendly environments. Training and sensitization of all stakeholders on child rights and juvenile justice laws.
How To Apply
Children or their guardians can access services by approaching the nearest Legal Aid Clinic, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), or Juvenile Justice Board (JJB). Legal aid can also be requested through helplines or by contacting Child Welfare Committees (CWCs). Additionally, para-legal volunteers and school-based legal literacy clubs serve as community-level access points for identifying and assisting children in need.