(a) the funds allocated by the Central Government to the States to provide free legal assistance to poors during 2000-2001;
(b) whether the allocation made during the last year has been utilized properly; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor and the steps taken in this regard?
MINISTER OF LAW, JUSTICE & COMPANY AFFAIRS AND SHIPPING (SHRI ARUN JAITLEY)
(a) Funds are not allocated directly to the State Governments. In terms of Sub Section (c) of Section 4 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) allocates funds to the State Legal Services Authorities for implementation of Legal Aid Schemes and Programmes propagated by NALSA which include provision for free legal assistance to the poor. NALSA has so far allocated a sum of Rs.3,06,85,000/- to the State Legal Services Authorities during the financial year 2000-2001.
(b)&(c) Information is being collected and will be laid on the table of the House.