Under the guidance of Nalin Kumar, the Principal District and Sessions Judge who also chairs the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), a Jail Court, Health Camp, and Legal Awareness Camp took place at Garhwa District Jail on Sunday.
The District Legal Services Authority organized the camp to empower inmates and help them access justice. During the event, inmates received information about their legal rights, underwent free medical examinations, and obtained necessary medications at no cost.
During his address at the camp, Sanjay Kumar, the Sub-Divisional Officer-cum-Jail Superintendent of Garhwa, urged inmates to discard negativity and embrace a positive outlook. He stressed that incarcerated individuals should not view themselves as criminals but rather focus on reintegrating into society and contributing to the development of a healthy, inclusive community.
Furthermore, he offered comprehensive details regarding the plea bargaining option, explaining that this legal avenue allows inmates to acknowledge their guilt in exchange for a possible reduction in their sentences. Kumar also discussed the fundamental rights afforded to prisoners under the Indian Constitution.
Legal Aid Defense Counsels (LADCs) Praveen Kumar and Nityanand Dubey provided inmates with updates on the status of their cases and explained legal procedures related to plea bargaining, forest-related cases, and compoundable offenses. They also listened to the grievances of inmates and assured them of timely redressal, reaffirming DLSA’s commitment to supporting prisoners in every possible way.
They noted that inmates who have served more than half of their sentence — excluding those convicted of crimes against women and children — can opt for plea bargaining and seek early release.
The primary aim of the jail court and legal camp was to raise awareness among inmates about their legal rights and to ensure they receive essential healthcare services. DLSA paralegal volunteer Tripta Bhanu and healthcare workers were also present, offering both legal assistance and medical support to the inmates.