Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority under the aegis of the National Legal Services Authority organised a legal awareness and sensitisation programme on October 31. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | November 1
The Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority (ZDLSA), under the aegis of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), organised a Civil Discourse on the Civil and Criminal Justice System with District Administration at the DC Conference Hall, Zunheboto, on October 31.
The programme was moderated by the Retainer Lawyer, ZDLSA, Easter H Yepthomi.
The keynote address was delivered by the Deputy Commissioner, Zunheboto, Dharam Raj, IAS, who highlighted the significance of the discourse in fostering a better understanding of the civil and criminal justice systems. He underscored the importance of strengthening coordination among the Administration, Judiciary and Dobashis, while promoting greater awareness of legal procedures and the respective responsibilities of stakeholders in the effective administration of justice.
The substantive session was led by the District and Sessions Judge-cum-Chairman, ZDLSA, Atoka Achumi, NJS, who elaborated on the fundamental distinctions between civil and criminal matters, including their nature, objectives and applicable procedures. He explained that civil matters primarily concern the determination of rights and obligations between parties, whereas criminal proceedings relate to offences against the law and the administration of criminal justice. He also highlighted the importance of correctly identifying the nature of disputes and following appropriate procedures when dealing with matters before customary institutions as well as regular courts.
The discussion further covered the principles of natural justice, procedural fairness, the rights of parties and the importance of impartiality in judicial proceedings. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of customary institutions in dispute resolution and their relationship with the formal judicial system. Practical aspects of proceedings, including the issuance and service of summons, proof of service, proper maintenance of records, handling of evidence and witnesses, and affording all parties a fair opportunity to be heard, were also discussed. The importance of fairness, objectivity and adherence to established procedures was highlighted as essential to ensuring the proper administration of justice.
An interactive session formed part of the discourse, during which the Dobashis raised practical concerns relating to family disputes, record-keeping, service of summons, proof of service and the role of witnesses. Members of the Administration also raised queries concerning land disputes and other related matters relevant to their official responsibilities. Issues concerning impartiality and the need to avoid personal involvement while adjudicating disputes were also discussed. The speakers responded to the queries and provided necessary clarifications on the issues raised.
The DC further suggested that ZDLSA could organise a dedicated training programme for Dobashis to strengthen their understanding of legal and procedural requirements, enhance their practical skills and equip them to discharge their responsibilities more effectively, particularly in the proper conduct of court proceedings.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Public Prosecutor, Khetoholi J. Yeputhomi, who acknowledged the valuable contributions of the speakers and the participation of those present. Approximately 40 participants attended the programme.
