New Delhi, 11th November, 2024
“Legal literacy enables individuals to be both rightful and dutiful, offering opportunities for the possibility of living a decent, dignified, and public life with a greater sense of confidence and participation in social activities and democratic institutions.”, said noted author and columnist Dr Birbal Jha while addressing a seminar on ‘Necessity of Legal Literacy for Every Individual’ at British Lingua, an internationally recognised institution for English communication skills. The event was held to observe the National Legal Services Day on 9th November in the Laxmi Nagar of national capital.
While emphasizing the critical importance of legal literacy, calling it a vital tool for individual empowerment and the protection of democratic values, Dr Birbal Jha added said adding that “The necessity of legal literacy for every individual cannot be debated or argued, but it has to be promoted and spread with a mission.”.
“Legal literacy protects individuals’ rights and benefits while preventing exploitation and deprivation. It can also help ensure a healthy democracy and provide access to justice.”, observed Dr Birbal Jha, Managing Director of British Lingua.
“Legal literacy fosters a culture in which citizens can actively engage in the formation of laws, rules, and regulations. It is indispensable for ensuring access to justice and maintaining a healthy democracy,” said Dr Jha.
Dr Jha outlined several key goals, including empowering individuals to recognize their legal rights and responsibilities, identifying potential legal conflicts, and knowing how to access legal information and assistance. He stressed the importance of raising awareness, building capacity, fostering community education, and exposing law students to social justice work.
In his address to the gathering on the day, Dr Birbal also called for stronger community solidarity and grassroots advocacy, urging the public to work collectively toward a legally empowered society. “Legal literacy is not only a tool for personal empowerment, but a cornerstone of a functioning democracy,” he concluded.