The Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA) hosted a one-day Capacity Building Programme on a Friday at the ADR Building in Lamphelpat, Imphal West, aimed at newly inducted Panel Lawyers. A total of 45 newly empanelled lawyers participated in the event, which began with a Welcome Address by S. Mangaleibi Devi, Addl. Member Secretary of MASLSA. The programme featured three main sessions focused on essential skills and responsibilities for legal practitioners.
The inaugural session, led by Alek Muivah, Member Secretary of MASLSA, covered the “Role and Responsibilities of Legal Services Lawyers – Do’s and Don’ts for a Panel Lawyer.” Muivah emphasized the significant proportion of India’s population—approximately 80%—that falls under weaker and underprivileged categories, stressing that the primary duty of Panel Lawyers is to assist these marginalized communities rather than those who can afford private legal services. He highlighted the inadequate awareness of legal rights among citizens, which necessitates Panel Lawyers to educate and promote legal awareness in addition to providing courtroom representation. The discussion included the responsibility of Panel Lawyers to regularly engage with Legal Services Clinics, jails, and support Para Legal Volunteers in resolving cases at these clinics. Muivah underscored the importance of professionalism, urging lawyers to be competent, responsive, and timely in their service while promoting amicable dispute resolutions via Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in civil matters.
The second session was presented by Shri W. Tonen Meitei, Judge of Special Court No. 2 (POCSO), focusing on “Basic Knowledge in Civil Remedies with Special Emphasis on Injunctions.” The final session was delivered by Shri Sorokhaibam Rabindra Singh, Advocate, covering “Lawyering Skills – Civil Law: Drafting, Examination of Witnesses, and Arguments.” The programme culminated with a vote of thanks from Fakhrul Islam Choudhury, Deputy Member Secretary of MASLSA, encapsulating the day’s comprehensive training aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Panel Lawyers in Manipur.
