The Jharkhand government has announced a Rs 500,000 health insurance scheme for lawyers in the state, a move that is expected to benefit around 30,000 legal professionals. The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister. Hemant Søren.
The Cabinet also approved a proposal to double the pension of lawyers aged 65 years and above, raising it from Rs 7,000 to Rs 14,000 per month. A stipend of Rs 5,000 per month was also approved for newly registered lawyers.
Attorney General Rajiv Ranjan said that Jharkhand is the only state implementing welfare of advocates and it will set an example for the entire country.
“This is an important step in recognising the challenges faced by legal professionals. As a lawyer, this move is commendable because it addresses a long-standing concern in the profession – the lack of adequate healthcare support. Legal professionals, especially those in the early stages of their careers or working in rural areas, often lack access to adequate healthcare coverage,” said Soumen Mohanty, Partner at AQUILAW.
“The Cabinet decision to extend insurance and pension benefits on attaining the age of 65 recognises lawyers as a productive workforce, professionals who discharge social responsibilities and citizens who make the justice mechanism possible. The legislative decision protects independent lawyers, both young and old, and creates a safe ecosystem within the legal community. The decision may impact legislative decisions in other states,” said Sunayana Basu Mallik, Partner, King Stubb & Kasiva, Advocates and Solicitors.
How to apply?
While the specific application process for the health insurance scheme has not been detailed in the information available, it is expected that interested lawyers will have to apply through the Jharkhand Advocates Welfare Fund Trust Committee or a designated government office.
Lawyers are advised to keep themselves updated through official announcements from the Government of Jharkhand or their local bar associations for further instructions regarding the application process and eligibility criteria.
“This is a first-time policy and will be governed by the bar association’s or association’s procedures for practicing law. The bar association or the state may issue guidelines in this regard, such as requiring lawyers applying for benefits to show a minimum number of appearances as proof of continued practice,” said Manmeet Kaur, partner at Karanjawala & Co.
“The successful implementation of this proposal will encourage other states to adopt similar policies for the benefit and welfare of practicing attorneys. States, in formulating such a policy, may take into account various checks and balances,” he said.
First published: September 11, 2024 | 17:26 IS
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