Press Release 18th October 2023

District Legal Services Authority Kupwara convened its third Under Trial Review Committee (UTRC) meeting at District Court Kupwara on 18th of October 2023 and was conducted in strict adherence to the directives issued by the National Legal Services Authority (NLSA) and J&K Legal Services Authority (J&K LSA). The meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Principal District and Sessions Judge Kupwara / Chairperson DLSA Kupwara.
The primary objective of the 3rd UTRC meeting was to streamline and expedite the judicial process, aiming for timely resolution of cases and alleviating the burden on the litigants. The meeting witnessed fruitful discussions on implementing innovative strategies and best practices to further enhance the efficiency of the judiciary in District Kupwara.
The meeting was headed by Pr. District & Sessions Judge/Chairperson District Legal Services Authority Mupwara, Ms. Shazia Tabasum, and attended by, Addl. District & Sessions Judge P.O. Fast Track Court Kupwara Shri Khem Raj Sharma. Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Ms. Ayush Sudan, Secretary DLSA Kupwara Mr. Manzoor Ahmad Khan, ASP Kupwara Mr. Farhat Jeelani, SP District Jail Baramulla Mr. Barkat Ahmad Dar SP District Jail Kupwara Mr. Shabaz Hussain Bhat, CMO Kupwara Dr. Ramzan, Public Prosecutor Pr. District & Sessions Court Kupwara Mr. Syed Jahangir, Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel DLSA Kupwara Mr. Mozamil Yousuf Bhat and Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel DLSA Kupwara Mr. Tawseef Raja. Their distinguished presence at the meeting underscored the commitment and dedication of all stakeholders towards the effective functioning of the UTRC. With their diverse expertise and experience, these esteemed officials contributed valuable insights and recommendations that will shape the future of the under-trial system in Kupwara.
During the meeting, the committee reviewed the progress and status of the cases that were recommended to be considered for release in the first and second UTRC meetings. In addition, the participants engaged in fruitful deliberations on various issues pertaining to under trial cases including case pendency, legal aid, bail, and other relevant matters.
The discussions primarily focused on the importance of formulating effective strategies to streamline the legal system and facilitate the timely resolution of pending cases. The participants emphasized the need to ensure the speedy trial of under trial cases while upholding the principles of justice and fairness. The committee also recognized the significance of providing adequate legal aid to under trial prisoners, especially those who cannot afford legal representation. The participants discussed various measures to enhance the availability of legal aid services, aiming to bridge the gap between the underprivileged and the justice system.
Another crucial topic tackled during the meeting was the consideration of bail applications. The committee deliberated on the criteria for granting bail, taking into account the nature of the offense, the likelihood of the accused absconding, and the potential dangers posed to society.
The Principal District and Sessions Judge expressed gratitude towards the participants for their active involvement in the meeting, and highlighted the commitment of the judiciary in providing speedy justice to all.
DLSA Kupwara, remains committed to ensuring the administration of justice in a fair and efficient manner. Through initiatives like UTRC meetings, it strives to address the challenges faced by the under trial inmates and work towards achieving a more effective and expedited legal system.
Besides the UTRC Deputy Commissioner Kupwara thoroughly inspected the Court Complex Kupwara, and assured full cooperation.