DIMAPUR: Justice Kalyan Rai Surana, Judge of the Gauhati High Court and executive chairman of the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA), flagged off multi-utility vehicles (MUVs) for the NSLSA and various District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) at the Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench, on April 28.
A DIPR report informed that sddressing the gathering, Justice Surana emphasized that the mission of legal services remains ongoing as long as individuals require assistance in exercising their rights. He urged that the vehicles be used strictly for their intended purpose of outreach and legal aid activities, cautioning against personal use.
He reminded officers and lawyers that their responsibilities extend beyond the courtroom, particularly in reaching marginalized communities and assessing conditions of undertrial prisoners. Commending NSLSA’s efforts, he noted that Nagaland’s awareness initiatives surpass those of several other states.
NSLSA member secretary Neiko Akami, in his welcome address, informed that the vehicles were procured during the financial year 2025–2026 to strengthen delivery of legal services across Nagaland. He said the distribution to all districts would enhance mobility and outreach, enabling legal services to reach even the most remote areas. Referring to Article 39A of the Constitution, Akami highlighted the mandate of providing free and effective legal aid to the poor and vulnerable. He expressed gratitude to Justice Surana and the Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court for approving the procurement.
Senior Advocate and president of the High Court Bar Association, C. T. Jamir, also extended appreciation for the activities undertaken by the legal services authorities. The programme was chaired by Asenla Walling, Panel Lawyer, Kohima DLSA, and attended by Justice Pranjal Das, members of the High Court Bar, panel lawyers and staff.
