Supreme Court Commences Historic Lok Adalat with Media Access to Courtrooms

In a historic move, the Supreme Court’s first seven benches initiated a special Lok Adalat at 2 p.m. on Monday, aimed at amicably resolving disputes. This marked the first time media cameras were permitted inside the courtrooms.

The week-long special Lok Adalat, commemorating 75 years of the Supreme Court, was launched with the goal of “facilitating amicable settlements of suitable pending cases,” particularly those with “elements of settlement.”

Earlier in the day, Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud announced that the first seven benches of the apex court would be hearing cases as part of the special Lok Adalat at 2 p.m.

The Supreme Court will conduct a special Lok Adalat until August 3, aiming to reduce the backlog of cases. “From today until Friday, the Supreme Court Lok Adalat will be held, with the first seven benches participating. Lawyers with cases suitable for the Lok Adalat are encouraged to bring them forward,” Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud announced at the start of the proceedings.

The CJI had previously urged citizens with pending cases before the Supreme Court to participate in the special Lok Adalat to resolve their disputes amicably and swiftly. In a video message posted on the court’s website, he stated, “From July 29 to August 3, the Supreme Court is organizing a special Lok Adalat as part of a series of activities to commemorate the 75th year of the Supreme Court’s establishment.”

Chief Justice Chandrachud highlighted the concern among judges regarding the large backlog of cases. “The Lok Adalat represents a highly informal, technology-based solution for resolving cases involving our citizens in a voluntary and consensual manner,” Justice Chandrachud explained.

He appealed to all citizens with cases before the Supreme Court and their lawyers to take advantage of this opportunity for a swift resolution that is acceptable to all parties involved. The Supreme Court emphasized that Lok Adalats are a vital component of the judicial system, enhancing alternative dispute resolution and fostering amicable settlements.

The court indicated that cases with elements of settlement, including those related to matrimonial disputes, property disputes, motor-accident claims, land acquisition, compensation, service, and labor, pending before the apex court would be addressed to facilitate a speedy disposal.