Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, expressed profound satisfaction in helping litigants resolve disputes amicably, emphasizing the role of Lok Adalats in fostering such settlements. Speaking to PTI during the commencement of a special week-long Lok Adalat, celebrating 75 years of the Supreme Court, the Chief Justice shared insights from his experiences with cases amenable to settlement.
The special Lok Adalat session is designed to facilitate the amicable resolution of pending cases, particularly those that have potential elements of settlement. Justice Chandrachud recounted a specific case involving an estranged couple that had approached the court with multiple legal battles, including a divorce petition and custody disputes, filed at the family court in Patiala House Courts.
The couple ultimately decided to withdraw their cases and reconcile, a decision that was reached during a pre-Lok Adalat sitting. “The husband asked me whether he will have to come back to the Supreme Court after withdrawing the case,” Justice Chandrachud relayed, highlighting the finality and relief that Lok Adalat settlements can provide to parties involved.
Justice Chandrachud reflected on the impact of such resolutions: “Ultimately as judges, the greatest satisfaction for us is when we help parties resolve their disputes. Of course, as judges we have to decide disputes, deliver judgments, decide them in accordance with law, but the most important thing is the satisfaction that you get when parties have resolved disputes amicably.”
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Lok Adalats serve as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism that not only expedites the process of justice but also eliminates the potential for prolonged legal battles and appeals. This approach underscores a significant aspect of the judicial process, where the emphasis is placed on mutual satisfaction and resolution rather than contention.
