Voiceless, vulnerable must not be denied legal aid, services: CJI Khehar

New Delhi [India], Mar. 18 (ANI): While expressing disappointment over justice still a dream for many in the country, Chief Justice of India J. S. Khehar on Saturday said expeditious disposal of cases is the need of the hour, adding that the voiceless and vulnerable must not be denied legal aid and services. "No accused should remain unrepresented and legal aid should be given to everyone as and when required," CJI Khehar said while addressing the 15th All India Meet of State Legal Services Authorities here. CJI Khehar further said that procedures should be less in the cases to ensure their earliest disposal. He said the judiciary should make sure that cases are not closed with acquittal of an accused. Expressing disappointment over the guilty getting a free hand in many cases, CJI Khehar said, "Ours is a strange country, the bigger the criminal the bigger the outreach." "Never seen before a terror convict who failed up to the Supreme Court and in his review can get access to justice in the manner we extended," he added. CJI Khehar further said that such things make him think about the victim and his family who lost its breadwinner. Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Law and Justice P. P. Chaudhary pitched for providing justice to the poor as well as strengthening the judicial system in the country. "Legal services across the country should be upgraded. There is a need for more courts as several cases are pending for quick disposal," Justice Chaudhary said. Calling for legal awareness among people, the minister said the legal authorities should conduct seminars and conferences in this regard to inform the people about their legal rights. (ANI)