Discussing the follow-up report on resolutions of the 20th session (previous session) of the National Council (NC) yesterday, members were disappointed that the government didn’t consider their recommendation on “Legal aid services to indigent persons.”
The council recommended the need to provide such service because it has been mandated by the Constitution. According to the house’s Legislative Committee, an indigent person is a person who is poor, helpless and needy, and cannot afford the services of a lawyer.
“The Constitution clearly states the importance of legal aid services to indigent people. So, I feel that the government has disrespected the Constitution,” underlined the National Council Member of Gasa, Dorji Khandu, adding: “Government should promptly respond on this matter.”
Some members also suggested seeking written justification from the government.
“Maybe the government didn’t respond in absence of the Prime Minister or maybe because the government term is coming to an end. But there are representatives who could have responded. Even if the Prime Minister is out of station, I would request the government to provide us a written justification,” added Lhaki Dolma, the National Council Member of Punakha.
The National Council Chairperson, Tashi Dorji informed the house that, “It would be better if the house could submit set of questions on the matter to the government.”
The house then decided to forward a written question to the cabinet secretariat regarding Legal Aid to Indigent Persons.
