Kewal Singh Dhillon raises Punjab Bar Associations’ concerns over legal aid system with Union Law Minister
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 29, 2026: BJP Punjab President Kewal Singh Dhillon has forwarded a representation submitted by the Joint Action Committee of Punjab Bar Associations to Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, seeking an early examination of concerns surrounding the Legal Aid Defence Counsel System (LADCS).
In his letter, Dhillon highlighted objections raised by Punjab Bar Associations regarding the structure and implementation of the LADCS scheme under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. The representation alleged that the scheme goes beyond the scope of the parent legislation and adversely affects the independence of the legal profession.
The Bar Associations also raised concerns that the existing system restricts litigants’ right to choose legal counsel, displaces the legal aid panel system and negatively impacts the livelihood of practising advocates, particularly young lawyers at the district level.
The representation further alleged misuse of the scheme, including the collection of professional fees despite salaried remuneration, the extension of legal aid to ineligible persons and the solicitation of litigants. It sought an independent inquiry into these allegations.
Dhillon requested the Union Law Ministry to examine the matter at the earliest and take appropriate action.