Bylakuppe: On 11 October 2025, the Tibetan local Justice Commission of Southern Region organised a legal awareness programme at the Lugsam Nyamdrel Community Hall in Bylakuppe. The event saw the participation of around 60 attendees, including heads of governmental and non-governmental organisations, representatives, officials, and members of the public from both Lugsung Samdupling and Dekyi Larso Tibetan settlements.

The Local Tibetan Justice Commissioner of the Southern Region, Phuntsok Palden, inaugurated the programme with an overview of the Tibetan Judiciary in exile, explaining its structure at both central and subordinate levels. He also highlighted key foundational legal documents and discussed essential judicial processes, such as the veracity and examination of witnesses and the standard of proof. The session also elaborated on the establishment, authority, and jurisdiction of the Tibetan justice commissions, along with the procedures for legal applications.

The legal experts from the Periyapatna Taluk Legal Service Committee were invited as speakers. These included Raju M, Chairman and Senior Civil Judge & JMFC; Yogesh M.R, Secretary and Principal Civil Judge & JMFC; Lava Kumar, Advocate and Committee Member; Dhanpal, President of the Periyapatna Advocate Bar Association; Shankara, Committee Member; Ravi Kumar, Sub-Inspector, Bylakuppe Police Station; and Mahadev, Receptionist of the Taluk Legal Service Committee office.

As a gesture of gratitude, the Southern Tibetan Justice Commissioner  Phuntsok Palden, together with Tibetan Settlement Officers Gelek Jungney (Lugsung Samdupling) and Ngawang Tenzin (Dickyi Larsoe), presented mementos of appreciation to the guest speakers.

During the session, Senior Judge Raju M delivered a detailed presentation on the important provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, highlighting its key features and practical applications. This was followed by Civil Judge Yogesh M.R, who spoke on the Legal Services Authority at both central and state levels. He discussed its objectives, responsibilities, and functions, and provided insights into the eligibility criteria for free legal aid, as well as the roles of mediation centres, legal clinics, and para-legal volunteers.

Advocate Lava Kumar explained the procedures for obtaining birth and death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce certificates, outlining the necessary documentation for each.

The session concluded with an interactive discussion, where the judges and legal experts responded to various questions from the audience, offering clear and informative answers. The programme successfully enhanced public understanding of legal rights and procedures within the Tibetan exile community.

-Report filed by TSJC, CTA