Punjab government has operationalised free legal aid committees across all 43 prisons in the province to ensure no underprivileged prisoner is deprived of legal representation.
The initiative, aims to assist prisoners unable to afford legal counsel.
According to the Punjab Home Department spokesperson, these committees have been established in collaboration with the Punjab Bar Council and district bar associations.
Comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been issued to streamline the process of identifying and assisting deserving inmates. Under the SOPs, deputy superintendents (judicial) will identify prisoners in need of free legal aid.
Weekly announcements will be made in barracks every Tuesday to inform inmates about the service. By Wednesday, a list of eligible prisoners will be forwarded to the respective district's free legal aid committee.
Deputy superintendents will also facilitate meetings between inmates and their assigned lawyers, ensuring every listed prisoner receives legal assistance.
Any barriers in providing legal aid will be addressed with the support of superintendents and bar councils. In case of lawyer unavailability, the Inspector General of Prisons will liaise with the Punjab Bar Council to arrange immediate assistance.
To ensure transparency, monthly reports will be compiled and sent to the Home Department. These reports will detail the number of prisoners provided legal aid, along with reasons for any lapses. Punjab Home Secretary has instructed the Inspector General of Prisons to ensure strict compliance with the issued guidelines.
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