Adv. Pramod Dhokale: A Legal Lighthouse for Senior Citizens
Adv. Pramod Dhokale: A Legal Lighthouse for Senior Citizens
Adv. Pramod Dhokale is not merely a retired officer, but a blazing symbol of law and social justice. While working at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), he initiated the crucial work of raising legal awareness among various segments of society, especially the grassroots citizens. Even after retirement, he continues this mission with enthusiasm that would put a young person to shame.
A Torch of Law Alongside His Job
[edit]During his tenure at the RBI, Adv. Dhokale collaborated with many reputable, socially-oriented legal experts. He focused on diverse groups such as women, senior citizens, laborers, and employees. Wherever needed or invited, he consistently clarified complex laws in simple language, explained the importance of the Indian Constitution, and continually raised awareness about people's fundamental rights. His work was never limited to mere rhetoric but was translated directly into action.
The Hands That Shaped the 'Right to Information'
[edit]A crucial milestone in Adv. Dhokale's career is his contribution to drafting the law that became India’s first Right to Information (RTI) act in Maharashtra. He provided invaluable assistance to the senior social activist Anna Hazare in drafting this law, which ultimately provided an extremely effective tool for the common person.
Legal Expert Fighting for Social Justice
[edit]His unwavering determination to stand up for social justice is clearly demonstrated by an incident at the RBI. At that time, family members of AIDS-affected individuals were being denied employment. Adv. Dhokale successfully fought on their behalf, not only securing them jobs but also raising awareness and introducing a degree of sensitivity on the issue among RBI employees.
A New Direction for Work Post-Retirement
[edit]Following his retirement, Adv. Pramod Dhokale has expanded the scope of his work. He is currently focusing particularly on the constitutional and legal rights of senior citizens and women. His emphasis is not on treating seniors merely as objects of pity or invalids, but on empowering them as competent and guiding members of society.
'Senior Citizens' Guide': Popular Booklet and E-Book
[edit]To guide senior citizens about their rights, Adv. Dhokale authored the booklet 'Jyeshthancha Pathdarshak' (Senior Citizens' Guide), published by the Yashwantrao Chavan Pratishthan. This booklet's extremely simple language has made it highly popular. Its first edition sold out quickly, and the second edition, along with an e-book version, has since been published.
'Law in Simple Language': Popularity on YouTube
[edit]Not limited only to books, he utilizes modern media to disseminate his knowledge to the wider society. His YouTube series of legal speeches, 'Sopya Bhashet Kayda' (Law in Simple Language), has become immensely popular. Millions listen to his speeches and gain invaluable legal knowledge.
Active Advisor for Senior Citizens in Thane
[edit]Adv. Dhokale serves as an active legal advisor for the Senior Citizens Association in Thane. This association boasts 35 branches and approximately twenty thousand members. Here, he delivers guiding speeches on legal matters across different branches every week. The essence of his work is to empower senior citizens to live with dignity by educating them about their rights and duties. He is truly a legal lighthouse for senior citizens.
