Lok adalat

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

the alternative dispute redressal mechanisms, it is a forum where disputes/cases pending in the court of law or at pre-litigation stage are settled/ compromised amicably.

Question 2

Constitutional basis?

Answer 2

Article 39A of the Constitution provides for free legal aid to the deprived and weaker sections of the society and to promote justice on the base of equal opportunity.

Articles 14 and 22(1) of the Constitution also make it compulsory for the State to guarantee equality before the law.

Question 3

Statutory provisions?

Answer 3

Under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 Lok Adalats have been given statutory status.

Question 4

Final award?

Answer 4

The decision made by the Lok Adalats is considered to be a verdict of a civil court and is ultimate and binding on all parties.

Question 5

Appeal realted provisions?

Answer 5

There is no provision for an appeal against the verdict made by Lok Adalat.

But, they are free to initiate litigation by approaching the court of appropriate jurisdiction by filing a case by following the required procedure, in exercise of their right to litigate.

Question 6

Court fee provisions?

Answer 6

no court fee payable when a matter is filed in a Lok Adalat.

Question 7

Nature of Cases to be Referred to Lok Adalat?

Answer 7

Any case pending before any court.

Any dispute which has not been brought before any court and is likely to be filed before the court.