Question

What are Lok Adalats? Discuss the organisation and working of Lok Adalats.

Answer 1

Instructions: Give the definition of Lok Adalats. Discuss the role of Legal Services Authorities act and the way in which Lok Adalats function and resolve issues.

Solution:

• The word ‘Lok Adalat’ means ‘People’s Court’.
• It is a forum where the cases which are pending in a court, or which are at pre-litigation stage (not yet brought before a court) are settled in a friendly manner.
• Justice P.N. Bhagwati is considered as the ‘Father of the concept of Lok Adalats’ as he initiated this idea as the Chief Justice of Gujarat High Court.

Organisation of Lok Adalats:

• Until August 1987, Lok Adalats did not have a legal recognition.
• The Parliament of India then passed the ‘Legal Services Authorities Act’ in 1987 to give legal recognition to Lok Adalats.
• This act also empowered the Parliament and State Governments to frame laws regarding the functioning Lok Adalats.
• This act also established legal services authorities at national, state, and district level.
• The important role of these authorities is to organise lok adalats in an organised manner.

Working of Lok Adalats:

• Lok Adalats have sped up the process of ensuring justice to common people.
• They do not hear cases according to determined laws, rather they try and persuade both the parties to come to a mutual and amicable solution.