The Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA) organized a one-day Capacity Building Programme for the newly inducted Panel Lawyers on Friday at the conference hall of ADR Building, Lamphelpat, Imphal West. The programme was participated by a total of 45 newly empanelled Panel Lawyers under Manipur State Legal Services Authority. The programme commenced with Welcome Address from S. Mangaleibi Devi, Addl. Member Secretary, MASLSA. The training programme consisted of three sessions. The inaugural session was conducted by Alek Muivah, Member Secretary, MASLSA on the topic “Role and Responsibilities of Legal Services Lawyers – Do’s and Don’ts for a Panel Lawyer.” In his address, Alek Muivah mentioned that maximum portion of India’s population i.e. around 80 pc belongs to the weaker and underprivileged sections of society. He highlighted that the primary responsibility of Panel Lawyers is to serve the poor, marginalized, and downtrodden communities, rather than those who can afford private legal representation.
He further noted that many citizens remain unaware of their legal rights and entitlements due to lack of awareness. Therefore, the role of Panel Lawyers extends beyond courtroom representation to actively spreading legal awareness and educating beneficiaries about the remedies available to them under the law. He stated that Panel Lawyers are required to regularly visit Legal Services Clinics, jails, Observation Homes, and other institutions. They are also expected to act as mentors to Para Legal Volunteers, guiding and supporting them in resolving matters at Legal Services Clinics. Emphasizing professionalism and dedication, he underscored that Panel Lawyers must be competent, deliver quality legal services, respond promptly, and ensure that cases are handled within a reasonable timeframe. In civil matters, he encouraged lawyers to promote amicable settlement of disputes through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.
The second session was conducted by Shri W. Tonen Meitei, Judge, Special Court No. 2 (POCSO), on the topic “Basic Knowledge in Civil Remedies with Special Emphasis on Injunction” while the third session was delivered by Shri Sorokhaibam Rabindra Singh, Advocate, on the topic “Lawyering Skills – Civil Law: Drafting, Examination of Witnesses, and Arguments.” The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Fakhrul Islam Choudhury, Deputy Member Secretary, Manipur State Legal Services Authority.
