On the 1st of March 2025, students from various Health and Allied Sciences institutions of MAHE assembled in TMA Pai Hall 1 at 10.30 am to witness the Legal Literacy Programme. It was in collaboration with Karnataka State Legal Services Authority, Bengaluru, District Legal Services Authority and Advocate’s Bar Association, Udupi.
Dr. Sadhana Holla, started off the ceremony by inviting Honorable Justice Sri V. Kameshwar Rao, Honorable Justice Sri. E. S. Indiresh, Sri Dr. H. S. Ballal, and Sri Ronald Praveen Kumar; on the dais. This was followed by Ms. Ashwini Rao delivering a beautiful invocation to grace the occasion.
Dr. H.S. Ballal then welcomed the audience present. He highlighted the importance of legal awareness and education among all health professionals. Then, the dignitaries gathered forward for the auspicious lighting of the lamp to commence the event.
Mr. E.S. Indiresh ascended the stage to deliver a lecture about the importance of law to medical practitioners. He started by thanking the Manipal family to provide medical assistance at such a grand scale in the area. He then emphasised that medical practitioners must be aware of their legal rights to protect both themselves and their patients. Proper documentation of patient information is essential for legal and medical accuracy, especially in potential lawsuits. Informed consent, whether implied, written/verbal, or proxy, is crucial before any procedure. Clear communication about diagnosis, treatment options, and associated risks ensures patient trust and autonomy. Additionally, meticulous documentation of birth and death certificates is vital to prevent legal and ethical complications, as highlighted by recent cases of misdeclared deaths.
Mr. V. Kameshwar Rao was then invited on the stage to deliver another lecture on the concept of free legal aid and the Constitution of India, where he took the opportunity to answer questions and doubts of the students.
The programme ended with presentation of mementos to the dignitaries and a vote of thanks by Sri K.S. Gangannawar, followed by lunch for the audience.
Writer: Ayeshani Mishra, The Editorial Board KMC Manipal
Photographer: Pranav Venugopal, The Editorial Board KMC Manipal
Uploaded by: Medha Chatterjee, The Editorial Board KMC Manipal