A Mumbai-based NGO, Dard se Humdard Tak has recently launched its ‘Legal Aid on Wheels’ initiative in the city. This endeavour aims to provide free legal assistance to vulnerable groups, particularly senior citizens and marginalised communities, across Mumbai, Pune, and other districts in Maharashtra.
Advocate Prakash Salsingikar, founder of the NGO, highlighted that the goal is to raise awareness of legal rights, so individuals do not end up in jail in the first place. The service has already garnered attention, with calls for help coming from areas such as Bandra, Borivali, and even Pune.
According to an NGO spokesperson, they have organised several awareness camps in and around Mumbai till date. The NGO also collaborates with Mumbai Central Jail, where they facilitate e-Mulakat services, helping inmates reconnect with their families.
Strategic locations for mobile legal aid service
The Legal Aid on Wheels service has been launched in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and surrounding districts, with two mobile units operating from 11 am to 6 pm. Each vehicle is equipped with a computer, printer, two lawyers, and two law student volunteers to provide legal assistance in underserved areas.
As per reports, an MoU has also been signed with eight law colleges in Mumbai, giving students the chance to work on real cases, engage with senior advocates, and experience the value of pro bono legal work.
The vehicles are stationed at strategic locations such as schools, colleges, slums, courts, police stations, and housing societies, ensuring broad access for citizens. They offer support on issues like domestic violence, marital disputes, human rights violations, cybercrimes, consumer grievances, the RTI Act, and police-related concerns. The service also raises awareness about free legal services under the Legal Services Authority Act and assists with online complaint filings.
Case Example: Elderly Woman in Distress
One example of the initiative’s impact involves a 66-year-old Israeli woman living in Borivali, who was facing physical and verbal abuse from her 71-year-old husband. Despite having children and living near a police station, the lady had received no assistance until she contacted the NGO. As per reports, Dard se Humdard Tak’s team immediately intervened, approaching the police and securing the necessary legal support for the woman.
The initiative continues to make legal aid more accessible, ensuring that individuals in distress and without the required resources are not left without support.
Helpline number: 98331 10121
