Dhaka:Government-provided legal aid services have facilitated the release on bail of 240 detainees in Dhaka over the past three months. This initiative offers legal representation to those who cannot afford private lawyers, focusing on underprivileged individuals.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Dhaka District Legal Aid Office offers four key services free of charge legal advice, government-funded legal representation, waiver of lawyers' fees and other litigation costs, and alternative dispute resolution. These services cover various case types, including land and family disputes, dowry-related cases, and violence against women and children.
Between July and September 2026, the office helped secure bail for 240 detainees, most of whom were rickshaw-pullers, day labourers, garment workers, and domestic workers. Legal aid services are available nationwide under the Directorate of Bangladesh Legal Aid. Eligibility includes individuals with annual incomes under Taka 150,000, those unable to work, landless individuals, widows, the elderly, persons with disabilities, beggars, and detainees. Victims of violence and human trafficking are also entitled to aid, regardless of income.
Dhaka District Legal Aid Officer Sayem Khan highlighted the lack of awareness among detainees about free government legal services, noting a legal aid clinic in the prison ensures lawyer appointments within 24 hours of application submission. The goal is to prevent individuals from languishing in jail due to financial constraints.
Legal aid can be accessed by visiting the Dhaka Chief Judicial Magistrate Court building, calling a national toll-free helpline, or applying online. Panel lawyer Advocate Firoz Uddin emphasized that government-funded assistance is dispelling fears of financial ruin associated with court proceedings, ensuring justice is accessible to all.