DM Harish School of Law inaugurates Indira Jaising Legal Aid Clinic on Women's Day 2025

The DM Harish School of Law (DMHSL), HSNC University, recently inaugurated the Indira Jaising Legal Aid Clinic at their Worli campus on March 8, 2025.

The legal aid clinic aims to provide free legal support to marginalised individuals who are unable to afford legal services. Senior Advocate Indira Jaising, after whom the legal aid clinic has been named, was also present at the launch ceremony.

In her address, she expressed hope that the legal aid clinic initiative inspires more people to get involved in the pursuit of justice.

"It is an honour to have this legal aid clinic named after me, but it is even more fulfilling to know that it will serve as a beacon of hope for those who are marginalised or who have been deprived of their rights due to lack of resources. I have always believed that the law must serve the people, not just the powerful. The clinic will be a space where legal aid can truly make a difference, particularly for women and marginalised communities. I hope this initiative inspires many others to get involved in the pursuit of justice," she said.

Jaising further spoke of her passion for the law and legal education, adding that the legal aid clinic was her way of giving back to society. She shared her experiences and suggested that the clinic should work hard to reach the people and win their trust. She stated this would help students integrate law with society and become better litigation lawyers in the future.

Other dignitaries who attended the inauguration included Provost of HSNC University, Anil Harish; Vice-Chancellor of HSNC University, Col Dr Hemlata K Bagla; Dean, Interdisciplinary Studies, Prof Leena Pujari; Associate Dean (Law) Interdisciplinary Studies; Dr Bindu Variath, and HOD, DMHSL, Dr Anju Singh.

The dignitaries emphasized the need for legal aid clinics from the point of view of society and how it can be instrumental in helping people access justice and make students and lawyers sensitive to the needs of society.

Vice-Chancellor, HSNC University, Col Dr, Hemlata K Bagla, in her opening remarks stated that the launch of the Indira Jaising Legal Aid Clinic on International Women's Day marked a fitting tribute to the relentless contributions of women.

"This clinic, in line with the core values of HSNC University, will provide essential free legal support to those who lack access to legal resources, ensuring that justice becomes a right for all, not a privilege. HSNC University remains committed to shaping future legal professionals who will uphold the values of equality, fairness and justice. Our aim is to provide legal assistance and support to the underprivileged, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their social or economic background, has the opportunity to seek justice. This clinic is a step forward in making the law accessible to all," she said.

Dr Bagla also announced that Anil Harish has now taken charge as the Provost at HSNC University, Mumbai, effective from March 8.

Provost, HSNC University, Anil Harish spoke on how justice should not be viewed as a luxury but should be made available to everyone. He expressed hope that the legal aid clinic would help in this effort.

"Today’s event is not just about the unveiling of a clinic. It is about reaffirming our collective commitment to justice, equality and the fundamental principles - that the law must serve not just those who can afford it but also those who need it the most. Justice should not be just a luxury item but it should be available to everyone. In India, where millions struggle to access legal remedies, institutions like this clinic will serve as the bridge between the law and the people," he said.

He urged law students to take this as an opportunity to learn from lawyers by volunteering on a pro-bono basis and by serving people. He advised students to personalise every experience in law with their knowledge of theory and practice and to spend time at the clinic to hone their skills.

The event was attended by students, activists, legal luminaries, legal professionals who interacted with Indira Jaising during a Q&A session that followed.

Dean of Inter-Disciplinary Studies, HSNC University, Prof Leena Pujari delivered the vote of thanks for the inaugural session and spoke on the needs of a diverse country like India, where legal aid for those on the margins cannot be emphasised enough.

The event also featured a legal aid workshop on the "Role of Law to Uphold Justice" which included four comprehensive sessions that explored the role of law in ensuring justice for all with a focus on marginalized communities.

Former judge of the Bombay High Court and the Allahabad High Court, retired Justice Abhay Thipsay spoke on 'New Changes in Criminal Law.'

Advocate Lavina Kriplani spoke on the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.

Advocate Ranjan Rajghor spoke on the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, while Advocate Aileen Marques spoke on the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007.