Legal Services Committee
The Legal Services Committee (hereinafter “LSC”), National Law University Odisha, is a student-run committee of the university, constituted in 2012. The Society carries out its functions with an aim to provide access to justice to the disadvantaged and marginalized sections of the population, primarily by spreading legal awareness and legal education in educational institutions and underprivileged communities. Since the beginning, the Legal Aid Society of NLUO has been working to close the gap between what the law says it will do and what it actually does. The concept of community outreach has been of paramount importance in the committee, which it has satisfactorily achieved through the integration of the students into the community, by organising legal literacy camps and social mobilisation camps and conducting socio-legal surveys relating to wide-ranging contemporary issues like domestic violence, consumer rights, dowry prohibition, land rights, under trial prisoners, and many allied areas.
VISSION AND MISSION
Vision
LSC aims to be a catalyst for positive legal change and to envision a society where justice is universally accessible, particularly for the disadvantaged and marginalized. Our commitment lies in promoting legal literacy and education as instruments of empowerment, fostering a community-centric approach to address legal challenges collaboratively. We aspire to lead with innovative solutions, advocating for equality, fairness, and the protection of human rights.
AIM
The Society carries out its functions with an aim to provide access to justice to the disadvantaged and marginalized sections of the population, primarily by spreading legal awareness and legal education in educational institutions and underprivileged communities. Since its inception, the Society has conducted numerous Legal Literacy Programs in remote areas of Odisha.
Cases Undertaken
Through the Legal Aid Clinic, in the NLUO Campus, the committee was able to help and assist clients with legal advice and availing of benefits from ongoing government schemes. In the AY 2023-24, in total, 35 cases were received from KUTUMB-adopted villages. All these cases were forwarded to empanelled practicing lawyers through the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and the Odisha State Legal Service Authority (OSLSA). Through the collective efforts of the Committee members and Special Legal Aid Officer, we were able to successfully assist in availing one ration card for a beneficiary and benefit, two women under widow pension schemes and helped in process and reviewing documents of various beneficiaries who were eligible for the social security benefits
Legal Initiatives
- 2020
PRAYAS: COMMUNITY SUPPORT DURING COVID-19
During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Legal Aid Society of National Law University Odisha (NLUO) launched Project Prayas, a comprehensive initiative to support our community. This project offered telemedicine services, connecting individuals with medical professionals for remote consultations and advice. We also provided crucial mental health counseling, offering psychological support during a period of widespread anxiety and isolation. Additionally, Project Prayas served as a reliable source for accurate, up-to-date information about the pandemic and related services.
Our dedicated team worked around the clock to ensure accessibility to these vital services. Project Prayas successfully resolved over 100 queries, demonstrating its significant impact in addressing the community’s needs during this critical time. The overwhelming response we received underscored the importance of such initiatives during crisis situations.
NYAAYA HELPLINE: 24/7 LEGAL SUPPORT
Building on the success of Project Prayas, we partnered with Nyaaya to launch a 24/7 legal helpline during the second wave of COVID-19. This initiative aimed to provide free, accessible legal aid and advice to those affected by the pandemic. The Nyaaya Helpline offered support in various vernacular languages to ensure widespread accessibility. Our team of legal experts provided guidance on a range of pandemic-related issues, including employment law, healthcare rights, and other relevant legal matters.The round-the-clock availability of the helpline ensured that help was always just a phone call away, regardless of the time or day. This proved to be a crucial resource, assisting a substantial number of individuals in navigating the complex legal challenges arising from the pandemic.
- 2021
AYUDA
Ayuda, the annual flagship event of the Legal Aid Society at National Law University Odisha (NLUO), is dedicated to enhancing legal aid awareness and involvement among law students. Since its launch in October 2016, Ayuda has evolved from a simple inter-university fest into a comprehensive three-day program, bringing together law students from across Odisha.The festival aims to highlight the importance of legal aid clinics in legal education, establish a statewide network of students passionate about legal aid, and provide practical exposure to legal aid work. It features a range of activities including workshops on effective legal aid clinic management, interactive sessions with experienced practitioners, and discussions on key legal aid issues. Participants also engage in competitions that stimulate active involvement and innovative thinking.
A notable aspect of Ayuda is the field visit to NLUO’s own Legal Aid Clinic, offering students a firsthand experience of legal aid in action. The “Unsung Heroes in Legal Aid” session is another highlight, where seasoned professionals share their experiences and challenges, providing valuable insights and motivation to aspiring legal aid workers.Through Ayuda, we strive to nurture a new generation of legally aware and socially responsible professionals, committed to advancing justice and accessibility in their future careers.Rethinking Socially Relevant Legal Education: Best Practices and a Way Forward
The International Conference on “Rethinking Socially Relevant Legal Education: Best Practices and a Way Forward” was held at National Law University Odisha (NLUO) from September 16th to 17th, 2017. This seminar aimed to explore the evolving role of law schools in enhancing access to justice and how legal education can better align with legal aid initiatives.The conference sought to create a platform for law schools and NGOs to network and share ideas on improving legal aid services and legal education. It provided an opportunity for participants from various institutions to present suggestions, raise questions, and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of socially relevant legal education.Training of Trainers for Capacity Building of Paralegals in Odisha
From March 29th to 31st, 2017, a “Training of Trainers for Capacity Building of Paralegals in Odisha” workshop was conducted by the South Asian Institute of Advanced Legal and Human Rights Studies (SAILS), in collaboration with BRAC University, Bangladesh, IDEAL Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), and the Legal Aid Society. The workshop focused on enhancing the role of various educators in improving access to justice for marginalized communities.The program included two specialized training sessions: one on the “Role of School Teachers in Enhancing Access to Justice for Marginalized People” and another on the “Role of Law Teachers in Promoting Access to Justice through Legal Aid Clinics.” Over the three-day workshop, 30 participants from Odisha engaged in sessions designed with principles of adult learning and alternative legal education, aimed at equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective paralegal training and advocacy.Training Programme on “Role of Law Teachers Promoting access to justice through Legal Aid Clinics
On September 12, 2017, a training program focused on the “Role of Law Teachers in Promoting Access to Justice through Legal Aid Clinics” was held. This session, part of a broader workshop organized by the South Asian Institute of Advanced Legal and Human Rights Studies (SAILS) in collaboration with BRAC University, Bangladesh, IDEAL Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), and the Legal Aid Society, was attended by law teachers from various parts of Odisha.The program aimed to explore how law teachers could enhance the effectiveness of legal aid clinics within their institutions. Discussions included the operation and management of these clinics, with specific focus on challenges faced by participants from the KBK districts of Odisha in organizing legal aid activities. Additionally, the workshop addressed strategies for establishing linkages among different stakeholders to improve the efficiency of legal aid clinics. The training incorporated principles of adult learning and alternative legal education to provide participants with practical insights and strategies.
- 2022
Dampada Legal Awareness Camp
The Legal Aid Society of NLUO organized an environmental conservation awareness camp at the Amiya (UPME) School in Dampada. This camp focused on educating students about crucial environmental issues such as waste management, pollution control, and conservation of natural resources. The aim was to instill a sense of environmental responsibility in the youth and promote sustainable practices.
Call for Blogs
The LSC invites rolling submissions for blogs on various legal aid themes for publication on their student-run website. The initiative aims to foster dialogue and knowledge-sharing, with themes for 2023 including legal and human rights for people with disabilities, potential human rights violations among the needy, and the interplay of war, conflict, and legal aid. This platform allows students and legal professionals to contribute insights and engage in meaningful discourse on critical legal aid issues.
Maternity Benefit Legal Awareness Camp
In August 2022, a Mega Legal Awareness Camp was organized focusing on the Maternity Benefit Amendment Act, 2017. This camp aimed to inform working women about their rights and the provisions under this Act. The event provided a platform for women to learn about their entitlements and protections in the workplace related to maternity.
Collaboration with DCPU, Khurda
Legal Awareness on Digital Awareness
At Godisahi Sarkari Ucha Vidyalaya, the society conducted a legal awareness camp focused on digital awareness. The highlight of this camp was an informative skit that addressed the challenges and safety measures needed while navigating the digital world during the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aimed to equip students with knowledge about digital rights and safety.
Munda Sahi Legal Camp
In Munda Sahi, the society organized a comprehensive legal camp that included a skit on menstrual hygiene. This camp not only raised awareness about an often-taboo topic but also took practical steps by distributing free sanitary pads and biscuits to attendees. The initiative aimed to educate the community about menstrual health and hygiene while also addressing the practical needs of women and girls.
Legal AID
The Legal Aid Clinic at NLUO provided assistance in various social security cases. They helped applicants obtain widow pensions, facilitating online applications and following up with relevant authorities. In old age pension cases, the clinic assisted applicants in applying and checking application statuses. For rural and housing assistance, the clinic helped families affected by natural disasters apply for government schemes like the Biju Paucca Ghar Yojana. They also addressed issues related to food security and ration card assistance. In general legal aid cases, the clinic handled matrimonial disputes, referring cases to appropriate authorities and providing pro-bono lawyers. They also assisted in obtaining financial assistance for medical purposes. In suo-moto matters, the clinic took action in cases like missing persons, coordinating with law enforcement agencies.
DISABILITY MATTERS
The Legal Aid Clinic at NLUO provided extensive support in disability-related cases. They assisted individuals in obtaining medical assistance such as hearing aids and artificial limbs, coordinating with relevant government departments. The clinic helped applicants apply for disability pensions, guiding them through the application process and following up with authorities. In cases of malafide lawsuits against elderly persons with disabilities, the clinic provided legal assistance, drafting applications to appropriate judicial bodies. They also aided in the regularization of service for a blind lady teacher, advising on the legal course of action when administrative channels were exhausted. Through these efforts, the clinic demonstrated its commitment to ensuring equal rights and access to justice for persons with disabilities.
PARA VIRAJ 2022
2023 – FLOWER SHOW AND ZAIKA
DONATION DRIVE IN PATHAPUR VILLAGE
On February 22, 2023, the Legal Aid Society organized a donation drive in Pathapur village under the theme “Donate a Smile: Give and It Shall Be Given Unto You.” The primary objective of this initiative was to collect essential items such as clothes, stationery, books, and other useful goods for donation to people in need. This drive exemplified the society’s commitment to giving back to the community and supporting those less fortunate. Through this effort, the Legal Aid Society was able to provide much-needed assistance to the residents of Pathapur village, demonstrating their dedication to social responsibility and community welfare.
SENSITIZATION PROGRAMMES ON STATE GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
On July 8, 2023, under the Kutumb project, LSC members embarked on an important community engagement initiative in Brajabeharipur village. The aim was to raise awareness about critical state government schemes designed to uplift the residents. The program highlighted three pivotal schemes: Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, which provides comprehensive healthcare coverage of up to Rs 5 lakhs per family annually; Sudakhya Yojana, aimed at promoting technical education among girls through financial support and tuition fee waivers; and Kalinga Sikhya Sathi Yojana (KSSY), offering educational loans at a nominal interest rate of 1%, easing the financial burden on students pursuing higher education.
LEGAL AWARENESS CAMP FOR HOUSEKEEPING STAFF AND BLUE-COLLAR WORKERS
On August 29, 2023, LSC conducted a camp at NLUO to educate blue-collar workers about their labor and human rights. The session included discussions on fair wages, working hours, safe working conditions, and harassment-free workplaces. Workers were informed about avenues for reporting grievances and were introduced to government schemes like the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, a small deposit scheme for girls, and the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, ensuring workers’ concerns were addressed comprehensively.
AWARENESS BEHIND THE BARS: PRISON VISIT
On October 10, 2023, the LSC organized a legal awareness camp at Choudwar Circle Jail, focusing on empowering undertrials and convicts by educating them on their legal rights as per the Odisha Jail Manual 2020. The program included skits and discussions in Odia and Hindi on topics such as legal aid in prisons, mental health of prisoners, and skill development. This initiative significantly impacted the prisoners by making them aware of their rights and duties within the prison system. The event culminated in a detailed Prison Visit Report, outlining observations and recommendations for improving the prison system.
LEGAL AWARENESS CAMP ON RIGHT TO VOTE
Conducted on October 12, 2023, in Nuasahai village, Barang Gram Panchayat of Cuttack, this camp aimed to enhance democratic participation by educating villagers about the importance of voting. The LSC team performed an engaging skit in the local language, emphasizing the significance of the right to vote. The session also highlighted government schemes like the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana and Scheme Khushi, focusing on healthcare and sanitary pad distribution respectively. The camp concluded with an interactive discussion, encouraging villagers to share their challenges in availing these schemes
ROSHNI KE SAATHI
In November 2023, the LSC launched ‘Roshni Ke Saathi’ as a Diwali celebration initiative to support small vendors. The project aimed to connect vendors selling festive essentials with customers by sharing their stories on social media. This initiative not only promoted small businesses but also fostered a sense of unity and compassion during the festive season. The stories highlighted the vendors’ struggles and triumphs, bringing attention to their valuable contributions to society.
2024 – NUKKAD NATAK
LSC members performed a Nukkad Natak in Pathapur Village to raise awareness about several government schemes. The first part of the performance focused on PM SVANidhi, which empowers street vendors by providing them with essential financial support. The natak detailed the eligibility criteria, required documents, and benefits of the scheme. The second part highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, which offers financial and healthcare support to pregnant women from marginalized sections. The final segment covered the Janani Suraksha Yojana, aimed at reducing maternal and infant mortality rates by promoting institutional deliveries. The performance was well-received, with active participation and queries from the audience, reflecting the effectiveness of this awareness strategy.
CALL FOR BLOGS
KNOW YOUR LAW
Our Team
| B.R. GARIMA RAO | Mentor |
| ARYAN RAWAT | Convenor |
| RISHITA AGARWAL | Co-Convenor |
| LAVANYA BHARGAVA | Secretary-Documentation |
| ANSHIKA AGARWAL | Secretary-Legal Aid Clinic |
| AISHANYA BAKHSH | Treasurer |
| SNEH KUMKUM KAUSHIK | Member |
| DEVPRIYA SENGUPTA | Member |
| ADYA | Member |
| INSHA PANI | Member |
| MRIDULA SINGH BHATTI | Member |
| NANDINI JOSHI | Member |
| SURAJ KUMAR MISHRA | Member |
| RAJSHREE PRIYADARSHINI | Member |
| ANKITA PRIYADARSHINI NAYAK | Co-Opt |
| TUSHAR KAMATH | Co-Opt |
| UDAYAN MOHANTY | Co-Opt |
| VIGAAS SINGH | Co-Opt |
| ISHIKA BHATTACHARYA | Co-Opt |
| NIMISHA SARMA | Co-Opt |
| SHEHNAZ CHOWDHURY | Co-Opt |
OUR CONTACT INFORMATION
Durbadala Mantry (Special Officer LSC) – +91 96920 04909
OUR SOCIAL MEDIA
For any inquiry drop us an e-mail on legalaid@nluo.ac.in
LinkedIn – The Legal Services Committee NLUO
Instagram – @nluolsc
Twitter – @lscnluo
Success !
Thank you for sharing your feedback.
Our team will get back to you at the earliest