Mobile ALAC – Free Legal Advie Camp District Khanewal
Mobile ALAC – Free Legal Advie Camp
District Khanewal
October 18, 2023
On October 18, 2023, Transparency International Pakistan in collaboration with Youth Development Organization Khanewal, hosted a one-day free legal aid in District Khanewal. The event aimed to provide legal advice to the victims and witnesses of corruption and addressed various social issues affecting the community.
A total of 41 complainants including 08 males and 33 females sought free legal advice. Advocate Chaudhary Muhammad Sajid offered free legal advice and guided complainants on various legal matters.
Mr. Ashfaque Ahmed, Project Coordinator, Transparency International Pakistan elaborated on the objectives of the camp. He highlighted the significance of legal aid in effectively tackling community issues and enhancing community awareness.
During the legal advice camp, a wide array of complaints were received, reflecting the challenges faced by the community. A recurring concern pertained to issues related to the local government, where citizens sought assistance in addressing bureaucratic hurdles and local governance problems. Complainants pointed out inadequate sewerage facilities. Local sewerage issues have emerged as a significant concern, with far-reaching implications for public health, breeding grounds for diseases like malaria, and dengue. Moreover, the contamination of water sources by sewage can lead to waterborne diseases like hepatitis. Another common grievance centered around the inadequacy of essential services like drinking water, filter plants, boundary walls around a graveyard etc. Additionally, beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Program sought guidance on issues related to bad behavior of public officials in dealing with public.
In the end, Ms. Zartashia, Executive Director of Youth Development Organization Khanewal, expressed gratitude towards Transparency International Pakistan and praised their support.
The one-day free legal aid camp successfully highlighted the importance of addressing legal issues within the community and the need for collaborative efforts between organizations, government representatives, and local NGOs to improve the overall social well-being of the community.
In addition to the legal advice provided, the communities were also educated on how they can seek redress for these issues under relevant laws. Advocate Chaudhary Muhammad Sajid explained the legal procedures and rights that citizens have when dealing with such issues. He emphasized the importance of understanding one’s rights and the legal avenues available for seeking justice.
Transparency International Pakistan, recognizing the gravity of these complaints, has pledged to highlight these issues with the relevant authorities. The aim is to bridge the gap between citizens and authorities, ensuring that public concerns are heard and addressed promptly. This initiative is a step towards fostering a transparent and accountable system where public grievances are not only heard but also acted upon.
