The Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs is going to widen the service of its National Helpline "164300" to boost its effort to provide free legal aid to the people's doorstep.

The National Legal Aid Services Organisation (NLASO) is going to recruit six officials to give legal advice on a contractual basis to run the national helpline call centre, according to the ministry.

"After the appointment, citizens would be able to get free legal advice around the clock. People can dial the toll-free number "164300" from anywhere in the country and get legal advice," it said.

Law Minister Anisul Huq approved the necessary documents in this regard on May 15. He also asked the NLASO director to complete the appointment process very soon. At the time, he reiterated his call to take legal aid service to people's doorsteps to make it more successful.

Ministry sources said the responsibilities of the newly appointed officials would be to: receive phone calls, provide legal information, give legal counselling and aid, provide primary information on filing cases, forward any complaint regarding legal aid service via supervisor to appropriate authorities, and enter data regarding caller name, address, problem, and solution. To provide detailed information about where the indigent person can go or how to get legal aid, and to perform any other duties assigned by the National Legal Aid Agency.

The educational qualification for recruitment of legal counsel officers is - LLB (Honour's) or equivalent degree from a recognised university with a second-class or equivalent CGPA.

Candidates with experience working as advocates will be given preference in this regard.