Supreme Court Justice Surya Kant, at NALSA’s 30th anniversary event in Gujarat, emphasized that a nation’s true justice is reflected in how fearlessly its vulnerable citizens live. Learn about key insights from the Western Regional Conference.

Introduction: Celebrating 30 Years of NALSA

The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) celebrated its 30th anniversary on April 26, 2025, with a grand event in Kevadia, Gujarat. Organized jointly by NALSA and the Gujarat State Legal Services Authority (GSLSA), the Western Regional Conference brought together eminent judges, legal luminaries, and community leaders to reflect on the progress of legal aid in India.

Justice Surya Kant’s Vision: Justice Beyond Statutes and Buildings

Delivering the keynote address, Supreme Court Justice Surya Kant, the incoming Executive Chairman of NALSA, redefined the measure of a country’s justice system.
He stressed:

“The true level of justice in a country is reflected not in the volume of its laws or the grandeur of its courthouses, but in how fearlessly its most vulnerable citizens live.”

Justice Kant emphasized that access to justice must extend beyond urban courts to remote villages, overcrowded jails, juvenile homes, women’s shelters, and tribal communities. He highlighted that NALSA’s journey since 1995 has been about transforming justice from a privilege into a constitutional right for all.

Key Highlights from Justice Surya Kant’s Speech:

• Justice is deeply tied to the safety and dignity felt by marginalized communities.

• NALSA must focus on ensuring that no citizen feels neglected, exploited, or silenced.

• Legal aid is not charity—it is a fundamental duty enshrined in the Constitution.

Commitment to Future Generations: A Call to Action

Justice Kant called on legal aid organizations, lawyers, and citizens to see themselves as “nation builders” and to expand NALSA’s reach even further over the next 30 years.
He urged everyone to work toward a republic where justice is a universal right and not a privilege for the few.

Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal: Emphasizing Community-Based Legal Aid

Gujarat High Court Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal underscored the importance of making legal services accessible to the poorest sections of society. She shared a case study where swift and empathetic community intervention was crucial for a domestic violence survivor.

Chief Justice Agarwal’s Key Points:

• Access to justice must move beyond theory and into grassroots action.

• Victims need not just institutional help, but continuous emotional and legal support.

• Community-based paralegals can play a critical role in empowering victims and rebuilding trust.

She stressed that access to justice is a fundamental requirement, not just an ideal goal.

Justice BR Gavai and Justice Biren Vaishnav: Strengthening Legal Services

Supreme Court Justice BR Gavai and Gujarat High Court Justice Biren A. Vaishnav praised the evolution of NALSA and GSLSA in ensuring justice reaches even the remotest parts of India.

Justice Vaishnav noted:

• Effective justice delivery requires proactive engagement with vulnerable groups.

• Raising awareness about legal rights among the marginalized is crucial.

• The release of the Gujarati version of NALSA’s theme song symbolized growing inclusivity.

With towering figures like Justice Gavai and Justice Surya Kant guiding the mission, the spirit at the Western Regional Conference remained high and optimistic.

Conclusion: Building a More Just Republic

The 30th anniversary of NALSA served not just as a celebration of past achievements but also as a powerful call to action for the future.
Justice Surya Kant’s message resonated clearly:
“The true test of justice is in how fearlessly the most vulnerable live among us.”

As NALSA, GSLSA, and countless legal aid workers continue their mission, the goal remains—to make justice accessible to every citizen, ensuring dignity, equality, and hope for all.