Legal Aid: The Constitutional Bridge to Justice for Marginalized India

Legal aid serves as a vital lifeline for those belonging to marginalized communities and socio-economically backward backgrounds and lack the resources to navigate the complexities of the legal system. In India, it is not merely a statutory provision but a constitutional mandate under Article 39A, supported by the Fundamental Right to Equality under Article 14 and the Right to Life under Article 21 . This article explores the evolution of legal aid through the Legal Services Authorities Act , the pivotal role of the judiciary specifically Justices P.N. Bhagwati and V.R. Krishna Iyer and the transformative impact of Public Interest Litigation (PIL). Furthermore, it examines the modern integration of technology, AI-driven solutions and E-Lok Adalats as the next frontier in achieving a truly inclusive justice system.