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Sikkim becomes first state to set up permanent Lok Adalats

Sikkim is set to become the first state in the country to establish permanent Lok Adalats. These will be spread across all the four remote hill districts, including the sub-divisional headquarters.

Addressing a news conference at Sikkim high court here on Tuesday, acting chief justice of Sikkim high court Justice Anup Dev, who is also executive chairman of the Sikkim State Legal Aid Service Authority, said the state Legal Aid Service Authority would establish the Lok Adalats throughout the state between November 4 and November 11. Dispensing justice at the doorsteps of the poorer and weaker sections of society would provide equal opportunities and justice to all.

He said, "Any one having an annual income up to Rs 25,000 was entitled to free legal aid. This apart, all tribals, scheduled castes, women and children are entitled to free legal aid, irrespective of their income ceiling. The LASA is also taking steps to bring other backward classes into this criteria, he added.

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