National Legal Services Day 2025 | 10 Nov 2025
Why in News?
9th November is observed as National Legal Services Day, marking the enforcement of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, which came into effect in 1995 to ensure free and fair access to justice for all citizens, especially the underprivileged.
Key Points
- National Legal Services Day:
- It is celebrated annually on 9 November, established by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
- It is celebrated to promote awareness of citizens’ legal rights, ensure access to justice for all, and uphold the principle of justice for the weaker sections of society.
- Legal Services Framework:
- Established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, the structure includes:
- NALSA (National Legal Services Authority) – headed by the Chief Justice of India.
- SLSAs (State Legal Services Authorities) – headed by Chief Justices of High Courts.
- DLSAs (District Legal Services Authorities) – headed by District Judges.
- Provides free legal representation, counselling, and aid to the economically and socially weaker sections.
- Funding is shared through the National, State, and District Legal Aid Funds.
- Established under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, the structure includes:
- To strengthen dispute resolution and access mechanisms, several complementary institutions and schemes such as Lok Adalats, Legal Aid Defence Counsel System (LADCS), Fast Track and Special Courts, and Grassroots Justice Initiatives like Gram Nyayalayas and Nari Adalats operate under this framework.