Amritsar, August 2 (K.L. Jit Walia):Prominent social worker and senior advocate Prakashdeep Kaur has expressed serious concerns over the implementation of the Legal Defence Counsel (LDC) System in Punjab. She stated that the new system would not only affect the independence of the legal profession but could also negatively impact the common people’s right to access justice.
Speaking to the media, Advocate Prakashdeep Kaur said that the relationship of trust between a lawyer and a client is one of the strongest pillars of the justice system. Restricting an individual’s right to choose their own lawyer goes against the spirit of constitutional rights and fair legal representation.
She further stated that the LDC system could directly affect the livelihood of young lawyers. Most newly enrolled advocates begin their careers by handling such cases, but if legal aid cases are limited to only a selected group of lawyers, thousands of young professionals may find it difficult to establish themselves in the legal field.
Advocate Prakashdeep Kaur emphasized that providing legal assistance to poor and needy citizens is essential. However, the system should be transparent and provide equal opportunities to all eligible lawyers. She urged the government to hold detailed consultations with the Bar Councils, Bar Associations, and senior advocates before taking any final decision.
The senior advocate added that maintaining the confidence of the legal fraternity is crucial for strengthening the justice system and making it more people-friendly. She appealed to the Punjab Government to reconsider the LDC system and formulate a policy that ensures effective legal aid for the poor while also safeguarding the rights and employment opportunities of lawyers.
KL JIT WALIA
