Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud on Saturday emphasized the importance of Lok Adalats as alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, noting that people often become “so fed up” with court matters that they just seek a settlement.
Speaking at the commemoration of the special Lok Adalat week at the Supreme Court, he highlighted the role of these forums in amicably resolving disputes and pending cases at various stages.
Lok Adalats, where disputes are settled or compromised amicably without the possibility of appeal, offer a crucial alternative for those overwhelmed by prolonged court proceedings. “Log itna trast ho jate hain court ke mamlon se wo koi bhi settlement chahte hain… Bas court se dur kara dijiye (People are so fed up with court matters that they just want a settlement). This process is the punishment and that is a cause of concern for all of us as judges,” said Chandrachud.
Chandrachud praised the support and cooperation from both the Bar and the Bench in establishing Lok Adalats at every stage, ensuring each panel included two judges and 2 members of the Bar. “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,” he explained.
He underscored the mutual learning between judges and advocates, particularly regarding procedural issues. Emphasizing the Supreme Court’s national reach, Chandrachud noted, “I genuinely feel that the Supreme Court may be located in Delhi, but it is not the Supreme Court of Delhi. It is the Supreme Court of India.” Efforts have been made to include officers from across the country in the Registry, promoting inclusion and diversity.
The special Lok Adalat began with seven benches, initially skeptical of its success, but expanded to 13 benches due to the high workload. “The purpose of Lok Adalat has been to take justice to the homes of people and ensure people that we are a constant presence in their lives,” Chandrachud said.
Celebrating 75 years of the Supreme Court, the week-long special Lok Adalat aimed to facilitate amicable settlements of suitable pending cases, helping to reduce the backlog of cases. The initiative ran until August 3, striving to bring justice closer to the people.
