Free Legal Advice on WhatsApp: How to Use the Government’s New AI Chatbot Nyaya Setu
In a landmark move to digitize the Indian judicial landscape, the Ministry of Law and Justice has officially integrated its Nyaya Setu service with WhatsApp. Starting January 1, 2026, every Indian citizen can now access expert legal guidance and information directly on their smartphones, ensuring that “Ease of Justice” is no longer just a slogan but a pocket-sized reality.
What is Nyaya Setu? The “Unified Legal Interface” for India
Nyaya Setu is an AI-powered digital platform designed to provide a “Unified Legal Interface.” Launched under the DISHA (Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice) scheme, the service aims to bypass complex bureaucratic hurdles. By leveraging the massive reach of WhatsApp, the government intends to bridge the gap between marginalized communities and professional legal resources.
The service acts as a primary point of contact, offering simplified legal responses and connecting users to a panel of qualified lawyers for initial consultations, all completely free of cost.
How to Use Nyaya Setu on WhatsApp: A Step-by-Step Guide
Accessing the Nyaya Setu WhatsApp service is straightforward. Follow these steps to begin your consultation:
- Save the Number: Add 7217711814 to your phone contacts. On WhatsApp, this profile may appear as “Tele-Law.”
- Initiate Chat: Send a simple “Hi” to the number.
- Mobile Verification: The AI chatbot will ask you to verify your mobile number. Once verified, you gain full access to the legal assistance menu.
- Choose Your Category: Select from various options, including Legal Information, Legal Advice, or Legal Assistance.
Note: While some users have reported initial technical glitches during the verification stage, legal information and navigation options remain accessible even before the verification is completed.
Key Legal Areas Covered by Nyaya Setu
The AI chatbot is programmed to handle a wide array of legal queries across different sectors:
- Family & Matrimonial: Get clarity on divorce procedures, child custody laws, and maintenance rights.
- Property Disputes: Understand your legal position in land or residential disagreements before heading to court.
- Domestic Violence: Quick access to information regarding rights and immediate legal protections.
- Civil & Criminal Law: Preliminary guidance on FIRs, bails, and corporate legalities.
The Technology Behind “Ease of Justice”
Nyaya Setu isn’t just a simple chatbot; it is a sophisticated AI tool integrated with Bhashini, India’s AI-led language translation platform. This ensures that language is no longer a barrier to justice, allowing users to interact in their native tongues.
Furthermore, the platform works in tandem with existing schemes like Tele-Law and Nyaya Bandhu, creating a seamless ecosystem where a user can move from basic AI information to a pro-bono consultation with a High Court advocate if necessary.
Is Nyaya Setu a Replacement for a Lawyer?
While Nyaya Setu provides professional-grade information and connects you with panel lawyers, legal experts clarify that it is a pre-litigation tool. It helps you understand the strength of your case and your fundamental rights. However, for formal court representation and filing of cases, you will still require an authorized advocate.
