Event Details

Interactive Session on Role of Centre for Civil Society in Access to Justice

FROM 03 Sep 2026 TO 03 Sep 2026

Venue : Moot Court, Manipal University Jaipur, Dehmi Kalan, Jaipur @ 10:30 AM

The Faculty of Law, Manipal University Jaipur, hosted an expert session on legal aid, street vendors and access to justice at the Moot Court on Thursday, 3 September 2026. The programme brought students and guests together for a focused discussion on the practical realities of obtaining legal assistance, the challenges faced by vulnerable sections of society, and the need to build stronger bridges between citizens, legal institutions and legal-aid mechanisms.

Students assembled at 10:45 AM, following which the Dean addressed the gathering at 11:00 AM. The lecture commenced at 11:05 AM. Mr. Manoj Mathew and Ms. Stuti opened the substantive discussion by introducing Jeevika and explaining its functioning, objectives and work in supporting people who encounter legal and livelihood-related difficulties.

Mr. Dharam Raj Joshi then spoke about the realities of legal aid available to the general public, drawing attention to legal uncertainties and gaps that can make it difficult for people to obtain effective assistance. His discussion highlighted the importance of understanding the law not only as a formal framework but also in terms of how it reaches people in everyday situations.

Ms. Reshu Gupta shared a personal account of the difficulties she faced while trying to access legal aid. She spoke about the harassment and obstacles she encountered, along with financial difficulties and the mental distress caused by prolonged uncertainty, including experiences of panic attacks. She also recounted an incident from her work as a street vendor selling momos, in which she said that a constable's push caused hot water to spill over her body, resulting in burn injuries. Her account brought a personal perspective to the discussion on how vulnerable individuals can experience the legal system and the consequences when timely support is difficult to access.

Despite these challenges, Ms. Gupta shared an inspiring account of how Jeevika had helped her and emphasised the value of accessible legal and institutional support. Her experience reinforced the importance of listening to the lived realities of people who require legal assistance.

In the concluding discussion, Mr. Joshi addressed legal uncertainties and loopholes and stressed the need for stronger coordination among government institutions, law universities and legal-aid camps. Particular attention was drawn to the Street Vendors Act and to the potential of structured tie-ups between government bodies and law universities to make legal assistance more accessible. The session emphasised the need to create a practical bridge between legal institutions and members of the public, especially those whose livelihoods and rights are vulnerable.

The discussion also connected with the broader work associated with Jeevika and the Centre for Civil Society, reinforcing the importance of community-facing legal awareness and support. The event provided students with an opportunity to engage with real-world legal challenges and underscored the role of legal education in promoting access to justice and social responsibility.