ANANTNAG: In a momentous step towards strengthening access to justice and healthcare, Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Executive Chairman, Jammu & Kashmir Legal Services Authority, inaugurated a Legal Aid Clinic and Free Medical Camp at the Court Complex, Pahalgam, for the benefit of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatris and the local population.

Addressing the gathering, Justice Sanjeev Kumar underlined the dual commitment of the Legal Services Authorities towards legal empowerment and humanitarian service. He interacted with aggrieved persons seeking legal assistance, encouraging them to utilize the free services available through the Legal Services Institutions.

"Legal aid is not charity; it is the constitutional mandate of a welfare state. Every person, regardless of their economic or social status, has the right to access justice. The Legal Services Authorities have been working tirelessly to bridge the gap between law and the people. This Legal Aid Clinic at Pahalgam is another step in that direction-bringing justice to the very doorstep of the needy, especially during the holy Amarnath Yatra when thousands converge here." he said.

He stated that Free Medical Camp established here is equally significant, as pilgrims undertake a physically and spiritually intense journey. He added, "It is our duty to ensure that no one is left without basic healthcare. I commend the Health Department and the Legal Services Authority for this collaborative effort which merges legal aid with health care-two pillars of human dignity."

"It is heartening to see today's program combine awareness with cultural expression. The skit and folk song by students beautifully highlighted the importance of knowing one's rights. And more importantly, today's distribution of mobility aids-scooties, wheelchairs, and hearing aids-reiterates our commitment to empower those who have been historically neglected" Justice Sanjeev Kumar underlined.

"Let us continue to work together-judiciary, civil society, health officials, and the public-to build a more inclusive and accessible justice system. Legal aid is not just about courts-it is about compassion, care, and commitment to the last person in the line."

The program featured a welcome address by Tahir Khurshid Raina, Chairman, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Anantnag.

A cultural folk song and an impactful skit presentation by the students of Government Higher Secondary School, Pahalgam, enriched the event and conveyed the legal aid message through artistic expression.

A highlight of the program was the distribution of legal aid equipment to beneficiaries, which included scooties for specially-abled persons, wheelchairs, and hearing aids, exemplifying the practical outreach of the Authority.

The event was graced by the presence of Shazia Tabasum, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, Mohammad Amin Parray, Senior Advocate, Anantnag Bar, Himanshoo, Additional Special Mobile Magistrate, Pahalgam, Shaam Kumar, Munsiff, Aishmuqam, Dr. Khalid Parvez, Chief Medical Officer, Anantnag, officials from the R&B Department, as well as Principals, faculty, and students from various educational institutions.

The program culminated with a plantation drive led by the Chief Guest, symbolizing a commitment to environmental sustainability and leaving behind a lasting green imprint of the day's initiatives.

The entire program was coordinated and conducted by Fozia Paul, Sub-Judge and Secretary, DLSA Anantnag, whose meticulous efforts contributed to the success of the event.