Legal aid committees formed in 43 prisons


Listen to the article

LAHORE:

The Punjab government has operationalized legal aid committees in all 43 prisons in the province to ensure that no underprivileged prisoner is deprived of legal representation.

The initiative aims to help prisoners who cannot afford legal aid.

According to the Punjab Home Department spokesperson, these committees have been set up in collaboration with the Punjab Bar Council and district bar associations.

Comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been issued to streamline the process of identifying and assisting deserving inmates. As per the SOPs, deputy superintendents (judicial) will identify inmates who need free legal aid.

Weekly announcements will be made in the barracks every Tuesday to inform inmates about the service. A list of eligible prisoners will be sent to the legal aid committee of the respective district by Wednesday.

Deputy superintendents will also facilitate meetings between inmates and their assigned attorneys, ensuring that each listed inmate receives legal assistance.

Any obstacles to the provision of legal aid will be addressed with the support of superintendents and bar councils. In the event that a lawyer is not available, the Inspector General of Prisons will contact the Punjab Bar Council to arrange immediate assistance.

To ensure transparency, monthly reports will be compiled and sent to the Department of the Interior. These reports will detail the number of prisoners who were provided with legal aid, along with the reasons for any non-compliance. The Punjab Home Minister has directed the Inspector General of Prisons to ensure strict compliance with the guidelines issued.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *