The Kohima District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), in collaboration with the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA), organized a jail inspection and legal awareness programme at Kohima District Jail.
Member secretary, NSLSA, Neiko Akami, NJS, explained that the purpose of free legal services was to ensure proper representation for inmates who cannot afford a defense lawyer. He informed that a legal services clinic operates within the jail premises, with panel lawyers visiting daily, and added that appeals for convicts are sometimes taken up in higher courts if deemed fit. Akami also highlighted that the government has set up Committee for the welfare of over 500 jail inmates across the state, noting that Kohima District Jail has one of the best basic facilities and is environmentally friendly despite its smaller size.
District Court Kohima, Additional Public Prosecutor Abraham, emphasized that imprisonment should not be viewed merely as punishment but as a corrective measure. He highlighted the larger purpose of reforming offenders through education, counseling, and skill-building, encouraging inmates to prioritize rehabilitation and reminding them that what truly matters is the person they become after release.
In her welcome speech, Principal District & Sessions Judge and Chairperson Kohima DLSA, Mezivolu T. Therieh, urged inmates to avail free legal aid and report any demand for payment beyond the service.
The program was chaired by Chief Judicial Magistrate and Secretary Kohima DLSA, Cheliam Khiamniungan, invocation by Jail Counselor Sarenti Aier and vote of thanks by Superintendent of District Jail, Sunny Keppen.
The team led by the Member Secretary interacted with inmates, addressing grievances and clarifying doubts. The programme was attended by 49 inmates, including undertrial prisoners and convicts.
