The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987

The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 is an important Indian legislation that aims to provide free legal services to the marginalized and weaker sections of society, including women, children, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other backward classes. The Act aims to promote justice on the basis of equal opportunity and to ensure that no citizen is denied access to justice due to financial or other constraints. The Act has established Legal Services Authorities at the national, state, and district levels, which are responsible for providing legal aid and assistance to those in need. The Act also provides for the establishment of Lok Adalats or people's courts, which aim to resolve disputes through mediation and conciliation. The Act has been amended several times to expand its scope and reach, and to ensure that its provisions are effectively implemented.