Equal Justice and Free Legal Aid
The State shall secure that the operation of the legal system promotes justice, on a basis of equal opportunity, and shall, in particular, provide free legal aid, by suitable legislation or schemes or in any other way, to ensure that opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities. [Added by the 42nd Amendment, 1976]
What this Article actually means
How it shows up in everyday life
This is the constitutional root of the entire NALSA / State and District Legal Services Authority system, and of the free-legal-aid guarantee built into BNSS Section 341 for criminal defendants — if you've ever used or plan to use a free government lawyer (call 15100), this Article is why that system exists.
Laws and mechanisms that put this Article into practice
Established NALSA and the State/District Legal Services Authorities that deliver free legal aid nationwide.
How courts have interpreted this Article
Read alongside this one
Quick answers about Article 39A
Who qualifies for free legal aid in India?
The text above reproduces Article 39A of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.