On November 9, 1995, the Legal Services Authorities Act 1987 came into force. This is why every year this day is observed as the National Legal Services Day to commemorate the commencement of the act. This act was enacted on October 11, 1987, but came into effect on November 9, 1995. The goal behind observing this day is to raise more awareness amongst people about free legal aid to the weaker sections of society. And let’s be honest, women are a HUGE part of that weaker section. Women’s rights have been a hot topic for debate for far too long. More so since women’s rights have been infringed and they have been exploited and violated for too long now. With the rising crimes against women, it’s essential for women to know about their rights as well as about free legal aid services across the country. Moreover, legal knowledge can not only empower women but also uplift them.
Here Are 5 Ways Free Legal Aid And Knowlege Of The Law Can Uplift Women
1. They Have The Right Knowledge
Teaching women about the basics of law can go a long way. This allows women to not only know about their rights and duties but also exercise their rights. The sad reality is that most women across India are unaware of their legal rights and do not know when their rights are being infringed and they’re being moral policed.
2. It Helps Them Raise Their Voice
How is a woman supposed to raise her voice against all the crimes committed against her when she does not even know her rights and duties? Basic legal knowledge helps a woman know when her legal rights are being infringed which in turn gives her the strength, confidence and power to speak up against it.
3. They Can Support Those Around Them
As a woman with legal knowledge, I have the power and access to information that allows me to raise awareness and support those around me who need help. While it’s a little impractical to expect all women to study law but a basic awareness programme aimed at teaching them helps them uplift themselves and those around them.
4. It Gives Them Access To Legal Solutions
With legal knowledge comes the knowledge of free legal aid services which can help women seek legal aid when crimes are committed against them. We live in a society where women have limited access to funds which can often be a major hurdle in seeking justice for crimes against them but access to free legal aid allows them to seek legal solutions to their problems. This is where free legal aid comes in like a knight in shining armour.
5. They Can Raise Awareness
Knowledge about the law and about free legal aid is more empowering than anything else. The sad reality is that while we may know about free legal aid services in India, most people across the country are unaware of it. But a woman armed with legal knowledge will know about it and she will know how to access this free legal aid for herself and for those around her. Empowering one woman with legal knowledge can empower all the other women around her.
Also Read: 9 Legal Rights You Should Know As An Indian Woman
As a woman with a law degree, I can promise you, legal knowledge is empowering in more ways than one. It gives you confidence and teaches you to not sit back and watch when your legal rights are violated. And it arms you with the knowledge to seek justice. So, on this National Legal Services Day 2022, let’s try to educate women around us about their rights, and duties as well as about free legal aid services.