Legal Services Authorities in India provide free legal services to various vulnerable groups, as defined under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
These include women, children, the mentally ill or disabled, industrial workmen, and others who are economically disadvantaged or socially vulnerable.
Step 1: Understand the Legal Services Authorities Act
The Act was established to provide access to justice for the underprivileged and ensure that legal aid is available to people who are unable to afford the services of a lawyer.
The categories mentioned in the Act include:
- Women and children, who often face societal disadvantages.
- Mentally ill or otherwise disabled persons who may struggle to seek legal redress due to their condition.
- Industrial workmen, who are often exploited and might need legal aid related to labor disputes.
Step 2: Analyze the Options
Option A (A woman or a child): This option is correct because women and children are provided with legal assistance under the Act.
Option B (A mentally ill or otherwise disabled person): This option is also correct, as legal aid is available for individuals with mental illnesses or disabilities.
Option C (An industrial workman): Industrial workmen are included as one of the groups that can avail of free legal services.
Option D (All of the above): Since all of the above groups are eligible for legal aid, this is the correct answer.