Chandigarh: Chandigarh will host a National Lok Adalat on September 13 to encourage amicable settlements and reduce case pendency, officials announced on Wednesday.
The initiative, organised under the aegis of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), will allow litigants to resolve disputes outside the conventional trial process. According to the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), interested parties can approach its office to have their cases listed for hearing.
The Adalat will take up a wide range of matters, including cheque bounce cases under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, criminal compoundable offences, money recovery suits, motor accident claims, labour disputes, and cases linked to electricity and water bills. Matrimonial disputes, family cases, rent matters, consumer complaints, maintenance claims, and civil disputes such as injunctions and specific performance suits will also be heard.
Lok Adalats are recognised under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, as a statutory mechanism for alternative dispute resolution. Awards passed by Lok Adalats are legally binding, carrying the same weight as a civil court decree, with no provision for appeal. However, if parties are dissatisfied, they can pursue litigation afresh by approaching the competent court.
By promoting compromise and reducing litigation costs, the exercise aims to strengthen access to justice and ease the burden on courts.
