Justice T.P. Ramalinge Gowda emphasized citizens’ responsibility to understand and uphold laws, rights, and duties during National Legal Services Day.
Chikkaballapur
Principal District and Sessions Judge T.P. Ramalinge Gowda emphasized that citizens must not only be aware of laws, rights, and duties but also spread that awareness among others. He was speaking at the “National Legal Services Day” celebration held at the District Kannada Bhavan, jointly organized by the District Legal Services Authority, district administration, zilla panchayat, police, education department, and Bar Association.
Justice Gowda remarked that just as “one who understands speech avoids quarrels,” those who understand the law have nothing to fear. Justice, he said, must reach every individual—rich or poor, regardless of caste or creed—and not be confined to courtrooms. The Legal Services Authority aims to provide assistance through legal aid camps, Lok Adalats, and awareness drives, ensuring justice even for those unable to approach courts.
He urged people to make full use of these services and noted that “justice delayed is justice denied.” Quick justice, he said, requires cooperation between judges and lawyers. Justice Gowda also stressed that rights and duties are two sides of the same coin—citizens who fulfill their duties gain the moral right to claim their entitlements.
District Commissioner P.N. Ravindra called for stronger village-level vigilance committees to prevent child marriages and urged public caution against rising cyber frauds. Senior Civil Judge B. Shilpa shared that over 380 awareness programs were conducted across the district in the past year, including campaigns on child marriage, child labor, and POCSO laws.
The event also featured awareness pledges, the launch of selfie booths, and participation from officials, lawyers, students, and police officers, all reaffirming the need for legal literacy to strengthen democracy.