GANDERBAL, FEBRUARY 07: Secretary District Legal Services Authority, Ganderbal, Sheikh Babar Hussain, convened a monthly review meeting as per Calendar of activities for the month of February 2026, to assess the performance of Legal Aid Defence Counsels (LADCs).
The meeting, attended by all LADCs of DLSA Ganderbal, aimed to ensure standards of service delivery, identifying challenges faced by LADCs, and discuss strategies for improvement.
All Legal Aid Defense Counsels (LADCs), Ganderbal attended the meeting demonstrating their dedication in delivering quality legal aid services to the beneficiaries especially in criminal cases. During the meeting, Deputy LADC Ganderbal, presented the status of criminal cases assigned to them. He highlighted 41 cases were pending; comprising 13 Sessions Trials and 28 Magisterial Trials. Of the 13 Sessions Trials, 4 are Under Trial Prisoners (UTPs). Notably, one case State Vs. Mushtaq Ahmad Wani (FIR No. 17/2013) got decided today, February 7, 2026 wherein the Court of Principal District & Sessions Judge was pleased to acquit the accused showcasing the team’s diligence, while the rest of the cases are at evidence stage.
Additionally, LADCs raised concerns regarding stationary shortages, which hinder their work. They were directed to submit a detailed requisition, and the office will process it under rules.
The Secretary, DLSA Ganderbal, reviewed case files and registers maintained by LADCs, observing their diligence in attending cases and maintaining records. He directed for proper maintenance of LADC’s office record including list of beneficiaries through support staff.
The Secretary reviewed the performance of LADCs, including their attendance, case management, and compliance as per their job profiles. He stressed LADCs to ensure punctuality in attending court proceedings and refrain from seeking unnecessary adjournments and ensure proper updation of the records through Supporting Staff on NALSA Portal. He also stressed LADCs to provide comprehensive legal services, including visits to jails and police stations and create awareness among the general public, especially in backward and far-flung areas.
The Secretary further directed the LADCs to maintain friendly contact with beneficiaries by keeping them informed about the status of their cases and all the LADCs are requested to act as a resource person/ ambassador for creating awareness among the general public regarding mediation for the nation 2.0 Campaign.
The meeting aimed to enhance the provision of legal aid services, ensure equitable access to justice, and promote competent representation in criminal trials.
By addressing challenges and implementing strategies for improvement, DLSA Ganderbal seeks to uphold the standards of service delivery and make justice accessible to all. The District Legal Services Authority, Ganderbal remains committed to providing quality legal aid services and ensuring that the rights of the marginalized and vulnerable sections of society are protected.