Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today inaugurated the ‘Nyaya Prabodh – Awakening to Justice’ campaign during a regional workshop and Reform Utsav organised by the Department of Justice at Government College Dharamshala in Kangra district.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that Indian democracy is founded on the principles of justice, equality and the rule of law. He emphasized that the Constitution not only guarantees fundamental rights but also ensures dignity and equal access to justice for every citizen.
He said Article 39A of the Constitution places responsibility on the State to ensure that no person is denied justice due to economic or other disabilities, and to provide free legal aid to those in need. Justice, he added, goes beyond court decisions and includes building a society where every citizen feels secure, respected and empowered.
The Governor noted that ensuring access to justice remains a challenge in remote areas of Himachal Pradesh, but technology, digital services, legal awareness programmes and local support systems are helping bridge this gap. He lauded initiatives such as DISHA, Tele-Law, Nyaya Bandhu and various legal awareness campaigns for making legal aid more accessible to the public.
He welcomed the launch of the ‘Nyaya Prabodh’ campaign and said legal awareness is the first step towards ensuring justice for all. He also encouraged advocates and law students to support the pro bono pledge and extend free legal assistance to underprivileged sections of society.
Union Minister of State for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal said that both the executive and judiciary derive their authority from the Constitution and work in coordination to serve the nation. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening access to justice, especially in remote and rural areas.
He highlighted that Common Service Centres and Tele-Law initiatives are helping citizens overcome geographical and financial barriers by providing free legal advice from expert lawyers, with costs borne by the Government of India. He added that greater awareness is needed to ensure that more people benefit from these services.
On the occasion, the Department of Justice formally launched the ‘Nyaya Prabodh – Awakening to Justice’ campaign under the DISHA programme. Beneficiaries of the Tele-Law service also shared their experiences, highlighting its positive impact on their lives.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
