Article 39A of the Constitution directs the State to make sure that justice is not denied because of economic or other disabilities. The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 puts this into practice through national, State, district and taluk bodies.
Who is eligible
Section 12 of the Act covers, among others:
- women and children
- members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
- victims of trafficking or begar
- persons with disabilities
- victims of mass disasters, ethnic violence, or industrial disaster
- industrial workmen
- persons in custody
- persons whose income is below the notified ceiling
How to apply
Contact the District Legal Services Authority at the district court, the Mandal Legal Services Committee, or the State Legal Services Authority. You can also call the national legal services helpline on 15100 or visit nalsa.gov.in.
Lok Adalats
Legal services authorities also organise Lok Adalats, where disputes can be settled by agreement. An award made at a Lok Adalat is treated as a decree of a civil court and is final, with no appeal against it.
General information as of 5 November 2026. It is not legal advice, and you should confirm the current law for your situation.