Free Legal Aid & Awareness Program at the Block Development Office, Bijanbari Pullbazar

20-06-2025

Date: 29th May 2025

Venue: Block Development Office, Bijanbari Pulbazar

Organized by: Block Administration, Bijanbari Pulbazar

In Collaboration with: District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Darjeeling

A Legal Aid Awareness Session was successfully conducted on 29th May 2025 at the Block Development Office, Bijanbari Pullbazar. The session was organized by the local block administration in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Darjeeling, with the objective of sensitizing the public on vital legal issues and promoting access to justice for all, especially the underprivileged sections of society.

The event was graced by several esteemed resource persons who actively participated and contributed to the session. These included Mr. Sayantan Guin, WBCS (Executive), Block Development Officer (BDO); Ms. Devapriya Thakur, Joint BDO; Mr. Pemba Tamang, Vice Chairman; Ms. Divya Limbu, Para Legal Volunteer; Mr. Kush Chettri, President of Umeed NGO; Mr. Arun Chettri, Karmadhyaksha, Panchayat Samiti; Ms. Stuti Lepcha, Upa-Pradhan, Gram Panchayat; and Ms. Sobha Darnal, Execution Officer.

The highlight of the session was a skit presentation that focused on key legal topics, particularly the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The skit was designed to communicate complex legal concepts in a simple, relatable manner, ensuring that even individuals with limited formal education could grasp the essence of these important laws. It also aimed to break the misconception that justice is accessible only to those who can afford legal counsel, by reinforcing the message that legal aid is available to all, regardless of economic status.

Following the skit, Ms. Esther Pradhan delivered an informative session on cybercrime and drug abuse. Her presentation emphasized the growing relevance of these issues in both urban and rural settings, highlighting preventive measures and available legal remedies. This was followed by an insightful presentation by Mr. Rupendra Tamang, who addressed topics of critical importance such as human trafficking, child protection under the POCSO Act, and domestic violence. His talk underscored the role of community awareness and legal intervention in combating these social evils.

The session was well-received by the participants and succeeded in raising awareness about the legal rights and protections available under Indian law. It encouraged members of the community to seek legal aid without fear or hesitation and reinforced the principle that justice is not a privilege, but a fundamental right.

The Block Administration extends its sincere gratitude to DLSA, Darjeeling, and all the dignitaries and participants for their valuable contribution to making this legal awareness program a meaningful and impactful initiative.