Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, emphasized the critical role of Lok Adalats in alleviating the cumbersome judicial processes that often drive people to seek quick settlements. His remarks came during the commemoration of the special Lok Adalat week at the Supreme Court on Saturday.
Lok Adalats serve as alternative forums for the amicable resolution of disputes, whether pending in courts or at a pre-litigation stage. These forums are notable for their finality, as no appeals are allowed against the settlements reached, ensuring swift closure for parties involved.
Highlighting the overwhelming burden that prolonged court proceedings place on individuals, CJI Chandrachud expressed a common sentiment among litigants: “People are so fed up with the matters of the court that they just want a settlement. This process is the punishment and that is a cause of concern for all of us as judges.”
In his speech, the Chief Justice noted the broad support Lok Adalats have received, aiding their integration at every level of the judiciary. He specifically praised the cooperative efforts of the Bar and the Bench in establishing these forums effectively. Each Lok Adalat panel is intentionally composed of two judges and two members from the Bar to ensure balanced perspectives and to foster a sense of ownership among advocates.
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“The purpose behind doing this was to give ownership to the advocates over the institution because this is not an institution which is only run by the judges, and this is not the institution of the judges, for the judges, by the judges,” Chandrachud explained.
