A jail inspection and legal Awareness programme was organized at District Jail, Kohima by the Kohima District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) in collaboration with Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA) on 26th March 2026.
Member Secretary, NSLSA Neiko Akami, NJS, explained that the purpose of free legal service is to provide free assistance to jail inmates who cannot afford lawyer, so that they receive proper legal representation. While some can afford a private lawyer, those who cannot afford can seek help of the legal services authority, where they will be represented at no cost.
He emphasized that inmates should clearly explain their cases to the panel lawyers for effective representation and informed that there is a legal services clinic that operates within the district jail premises where panel lawyers visit daily. He also added that, in some cases, appeals for the convicts are also taken to higher courts when appropriate.
He further stated that the government has established a committee to oversee the welfare of more than 500 jail inmates in the state. In this regard, he said efforts are being made to improve facilities for the welfare of the inmates.
He added that Kohima District Jail is among the better- equipped jails in the state, offering good basic facilities, an environmentally friendly setup and sufficient space for reform and development.
Abraham, Additional Public Prosecutor at the District Court Kohima emphasized that judicial system is not only punishing offenders but also about reflecting the seriousness of crimes through the loss of freedom.
He said the broader purpose lies in reforming offenders through education, counselling and skill-development to help inmates reintegrate into society as responsible, law-abiding citizens. He noted that it should be considered a correctional measure and take advantage wherein reform measures are for welfare of the person in conflict with law.
Abraham also pointed out that prison life provides inmates with the “luxury of time,” which can be used for self-reflection, personal growth, and gaining deeper self-awareness.
He concluded by emphasizing that what truly matters is not the past actions that led to imprisonment, but the transformation of an individual after release, encouraging inmates to focus on rehabilitation and becoming better individuals.
Principal District & Sessions Judge cum Chairperson Kohima, DLSA, Mezivolu T. Therieh, NJS in her welcome address urged the inmates to make full use of legal aid services provided to them, and advised the inmates to report to authorities if any person demand money for legal assistance emphasizing that such services are meant to be provided completely free of cost.
Chief Judicial Magistrate & Secretary Kohima DLSA, Cheliam Khiamniungan, NJS, chaired the programme and Jail Counsellor, Sarenti Aier pronounced the Invocation. Sunny Keppen, Superintendent, District Jail delivered the vote of thanks.
During the visit, the team led by member secretary held interaction with the jail inmates and explained to them their grievances and doubts.
The programme was attended by 49 jail inmates including the Under Trial Prisoners and convicts.
(DIPR)
