Justice delayed is justice denied: CM Omar
Srinagar, Feb 17: Underscoring the critical role of Tele-Law in easing pressure on courts and ensuring timely justice, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said, justice delayed is justice denied and the efforts must be made to ensure that only cases requiring judicial hearings reach the courts, while others can be resolved through technology-driven legal aid under the Disha program.”
While addressing a gathering on regional workshop on tele-law activities, at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Srinagar CM Omar Abdullah said, "Initiative connects citizens, especially in remote areas, to lawyers, educates them about their rights, and helps resolve disputes through mediation, thereby reducing the burden on courts and expanding access to timely justice."
He said hat efforts should be made to reduce the number of new cases reaching courts, while ensuring that only those requiring judicial hearing are brought forward.
CM Omar also highlighted that Tele-Law, under the government’s Disha program, connects citizens, particularly in remote and rural areas, with lawyers using technology.
He said this initiative not only informs people about their rights but also promotes mediation, thereby helping resolve disputes outside courts and reducing judicial backlog.
“While urban residents may find it easier to access legal help, those in remote areas often lack awareness of their rights or access to lawyers. Tele-Law bridges this gap,” he said, noting that over 7.5 lakh citizens across 20 districts and more than 4,000 panchayats have been advised through the program.
He added that the workshop aims to evaluate the program’s success, compare performance across districts, and identify best practices that can be replicated.
CM Omar also highlighted the ancillary benefit of the initiative: it provides additional work opportunities for common service centres, enhancing their viability.
The Chief Minister also expressed hope that collaboration with the Ministry of Law & Justice will further strengthen Tele-Law, expand access to lawyers, and ensure that all citizens receive justice in a timely manner. He further termed the workshop a success and thanked all involved in its execution. —(KNO)
