About Lok Adalat (People’s Court)

Accorded statutory status under Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
- In 2002, Act was amended to establish permanent Lok Adalats for public utility services, which are guided by principles of natural justice.
- They are not bound by Code of Civil Procedure (CPC), 1908 and Indian Evidence Act 1872.
  - It has same powers as a civil court under CPC, 1908.
  - Decision made by Lok Adalats is final and binding and no appeal can be made against its decision.
Cases referred to Lok Adalat includes-
- Any case pending before any court,
- Any dispute which has not been brought before any court and is likely to be filed before court.
Types of cases undertaken includes matrimonial disputes, property disputes, motor accident claims, land acquisition etc.
First Lok Adalat was held in 1982 at Junagarh, Gujarat.

Significance of Lok Adalats

Quick settlement of conflicts.
Economical in nature as there is no court fee applicable while filing a dispute in Lok Adalats.
Help to reduce judiciary’s burden of pending cases.

Arbitration (quasi-judicial proceeding, decision is binding).
Mediation (decision making on voluntary and consensual basis).
Conciliation (conciliator assists parties to reach a mutually agreed settlement, non-binding).