In a significant move to strengthen access to justice, Justice Anoop Chitkara, Executive Chairperson of the State Legal Services Authority (UT Chandigarh), has approved a transparent scheme for empanelment of advocates with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Chandigarh.
Under the scheme, 44 advocates — equally divided between women and men/others — will be selected through a draw of lots on September 25, 2026. This initiative ensures fair representation and equal opportunity across all experience levels.
Key Features of the Scheme
- Eligibility: Advocates with 3 to 24 years of enrolment in the District Bar Association.
- Tenure: Empanelment valid for one year.
- Grouping: 22 categories based on years of practice, further split into male/other and female groups.
- Selection Process:
- 44 ballot boxes placed in the Bar Room of the District Bar Association.
- Slips deposited by 1 PM on September 25.
- Boxes sealed and opened sequentially, starting with Group 24 (Female) and ending with Group 3 (Male).
- Draw conducted by a neutral person, with names announced publicly and authenticated by the DLSA Secretary and DBA executive members.
Why It Matters
This empanelment scheme is more than a procedural exercise — it reflects a commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and equal representation. By ensuring that women advocates are selected across all experience groups, the DLSA sets a precedent for balanced participation in legal aid services.
For mid‑career lawyers, this is a valuable opportunity to contribute to public service while gaining practical exposure in legal aid and dispute resolution.
Next Steps for Advocates
Eligible lawyers can collect the prescribed slips from the DLSA office at District Courts Complex, Sector 43, Chandigarh, and must submit them in the designated ballot box before the deadline. The draw of lots will commence at 9 AM on September 25, 2026.
