Observation of International Youth Day and Legal Awareness Programme

Date: 12th August, 2024

Venue: The Golden Hall

Time: 3:00 PM

On the 12th August, 2024, the Mizoram State Legal Services Authority in collaboration with the Legal Aid Cell, GHBC, organized a special observation of International Youth Day with a theme- ‘From clicks to progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development’. This year's celebration was uniquely marked by a Legal Awareness Programme, aimed at educating the youth about the recently introduced criminal laws in India, viz; The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam and The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. The presence of two eminent judges graced the programme, Mrs. Julie Lalrinzami, MJS (Addl. District & Sessions Judge) and Ms. Gracy L. Bawitlung, MJS, (Member Secretary, MSLSA) who served as the resource persons for the day.

The programme commenced with a warm welcome address by Mr. John. K. Laldingliana, Associate Professor (Member, Legal Cell, GHBC), highlighted the significance of International Youth Day and the urgent need for legal awareness among the youth. More than 400 students & 6 teachers attended the programme.

Mrs. Julie Lalrinzami, MJS, comprehensively addressed the details of the recently introduced criminal laws. She stressed the importance of understanding these laws and its implications. She simplified the complexities of the laws for the audience, encouraging them to be aware of their rights and responsibilities under the law. Following this Ms. Gracy L. Bawitlung, MJS took the stage to further elaborate on the legal reforms. She provided a detailed analysis of specific changes in the criminal laws. She also spoke about the role of the judiciary in safeguarding the rule of law and the importance of an informed youth in maintaining the integrity of the legal system. 

The programme also featured an interactive session where students had the opportunity to engage directly with the judges. The questions raised by the students reflected a deep concern for issues such as privacy rights, the impact of social media on criminal activity, domestic violence, POCSO, etc. The judges responded with insightful answers on these critical issues.

The observance of International Youth Day and the Legal Awareness Programme was a definite success. The presence of the distinguished judges and faculties added significant value to the event, making it an enriching experience for all attendees. The programme ended with a vote of thanks by Dr. Doumuanlal, Assistant Professor (Secretary, Legal Cell, GHBC), to all the participants for their contributions in making the programme successful.