Applicant is an under trial prisoner for the past two years. She alleges that though her case is committed to the court of sessions, the trial is pending as yet.
It is alleged in this application that on 11th May 2012, when she went to attend the court proceedings, her family members brought to her notice a newspaper article published in 'Sandesh' daily on 30th April 2012, whereby attempts have been made to tarnish her character by publishing totally false facts and thereby damaging her image in the society at large. She wishes to file a suit for defamation before the competent court against the said news agency.
On having examined the contentions raised in this connection, in the opinion of this court, the applicant can be directed to seek aid from the Secretary, Legal Service Authority, Rajkot for rendering legal aid to the prisoner.
Under the circumstances, Jail Superintendent, Rajkot is directed to inform the applicant about legal aid clinic available in the jail itself and if the applicant wish to avail services of the clinic, the same be provided to her through the District Judge, Rajkot who is the Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority Aid, Rajkot.
Registry is directed to forward copy of this order to the Jail Superintendent, who shall convey the same to the applicant forthwith.
(Ms.Sonia Gokani,J.) Dharmendra Top